Get diagnosed before clots cause damage

Up to two million Americans suffer from DVT each year and yet 74 percent of Americans don’t even know what DVT is. DVT, or deep-vein thrombosis, occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms and partially or completely blocks blood flow inside a deep vein, typically in the calf or thigh.

If the blood clot breaks free and travels to the lungs (known as a pulmonary embolism), it may obstruct the pulmonary artery or one of its branches, blocking blood flow to the heart. If not diagnosed and treated effectively, this condition may result in further health complications and even death.

DVT may be caused by a variety of risk factors and triggering events including restricted mobility, major surgery, obesity, cancer, certain heart or respiratory diseases and being older than 60. However, the absence of these risk factors does not necessarily guard you against developing this condition. DVT is a serious yet preventable condition. By taking the following steps you can greatly reduce your risk:

• Take any prescribed medications as directed.
• Check in with your physician regularly to see if your medications or treatments need to be modified.
• If you take blood thinners, watch your intake of vitamin K, which can affect how these drugs work. Foods high in vitamin K include green leafy vegetables as well as canola and soybean oils.
• Exercise your lower calf muscles if you’ll be sitting for a long time. Get up and walk around whenever possible.
• Move around. If you’ve been on bed rest, the sooner you get moving the less likely blood clots will develop.
• Make lifestyle changes. Lose weight, quit smoking and control your blood pressure.

DVT and pulmonary embolisms together comprise one of the nation’s leading causes of death. Join Marion Regional Healthcare System in observing the 6th annual National DVT Awareness Month by talking to your physician about DVT and scheduling a checkup today. For information, call (843) 431-2000.