Blood Clots: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention?

Answer 1

Blood clots occur naturally as a part of our bodies healing process. However, when a blood clot forms that is not needed, it can lead can to a potentially dangerous situation. Blood clots may occur in either your arteries or your veins. If you believe you have symptoms of a blood clot, it is important to seek medical help right away.

Types of Blood Clots

The most common type of blood clot is a blood clot in the leg, or deep vein thrombosis. Common symptoms of DVT are an increased redness, swelling, warmth or pain in the affected leg. If you have symptoms of DVT, it is important to consult your doctor. Left untreated, it is possible for the blood clot to move into your lung, which can lead to much more serious symptoms and is potentially fatal. A blood clot to your lung is known as a pulmonary embolism. Possible symptoms of a pulmonary embolism are coughing (possibly coughing up blood), chest pain, fever, fainting and difficulty breathing.

Treatment

The treatment of a blood clot is dependent upon where the clot is located. The most common type of treatment for blood clots are anticoagulant drugs, or blood thinners. Heparin and Warfarin are two commonly used anticoagulants. In more serious instances, surgery may be used to remove the clot.

Prevention

There are several things you can do that will significantly reduce your chances of getting a blood clot. Proper diet and exercise are vital, as is maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Wearing loose fitting clothing and reducing your salt intake are other simple precautions to help prevent a blood clot. After having surgery, make sure to carefully follow your doctor's orders, as blood clots are more common post-op. During extended travel, it is important to periodically stand up and walk around to ensure proper blood flow. Those who smoke, are overweight, and women who are pregnant or have recently given birth are also at an increased risk of developing a blood clot.