Blood clots are very serious. The condition is also known as DVT or deep vein thrombosis. It can be caused by age, reduced physical activity, recent surgery, injury, or excessive weight. There are numerous reasons why this condition can occur, but it is very important to talk to your doctor in case you notice swelling of the leg, warmth when you put your hand on the vein that hurts, that is a sign that you need medical treatment. There are also ways to prevent blood clots from forming, so here are the main ways of prevention.
1. Stay active
Physical activity is essential for preventing all kinds of health issues, including blood clots. One study showed that exercising regularly can even dissolve them. The physical activity doesn’t have to be too intense, and it can mean just going for a walk longer or stretching for at least half an hour a day. It is important to find some activity that you enjoy, so you won’t be tempted to quit after a few days.
2. Watch your diet
Nutrition is essential for maintaining our health properly. Leafy greens contain vitamin K, which is very important for blood coagulation. This is why, in the past, doctors didn’t recommend eating leafy greens when taking medications for anticoagulation, but the recommendations are different now. There has been a study that showed that people who consumed leafy greens daily managed to maintain levels related to anticoagulation stability.
In addition, extra virgin olive oil helps with reducing the risk of forming blood clots thanks to phenols. These are antioxidants that are essential for preventing health risks of this nature. On the other hand, trans fats can significantly worsen the condition that your body is in and increase the risk. This is why it is necessary to reduce their consumption to the minimum. Sugar is the main ingredient of sweets, cookies, and donuts. This is the food that we love to eat, but it is certainly not the best choice if we are under a high risk of deep vein thrombosis.
3. Consume medications as recommended
Anticoagulants are medications that doctors prescribe to patients who are under the risk of forming clots. They prevent new clots from forming. It is important to consume them exactly as prescribed in order to feel their full effect. Eliquis is one of the main medications prescribed for preventing blood clot formation, and you can find it at this site. The frequency of taking can only be recommended by a doctor, so if there is anything you are not sure about asking in a timely manner before you begin taking them.
4. Drink plenty of water
Some people don’t have the need to drink water, and that can lead to dehydration. It is necessary to consume at least eight glasses of water daily to give your body the amount it needs. It is also crucial for the health of your veins. One way of knowing if you are consuming enough water is by checking the way your urine looks from time to time. Anything other than bright yellow means that you need to increase the daily consumption. Drinking water is a simple way of doing something good for your body and your overall health.
5. Rest properly
Resting is necessary after a long day. Besides being an ideal way to rejuvenate, it is also crucial for mental health as well. However, it is important how you rest. Lift your legs on the pillows, so the blood can circulate properly. The swelling will decrease, which will certainly impact the way you walk. Your steps will feel lighter, and the risk of blood clots will decrease. Make sure you do it from time to time, at least a few times a week or when you feel the heaviness in your legs.
Also, when traveling, make sure you switch positions often and take a walk when you get a chance. Stretching your legs will make you feel better, but also protect you from possible complications. Avoid crossing your legs because that may add pressure to your veins. In addition, avoid getting bruises on your legs since that can also add a certain risk.
6. Kick the bad habits
One of the things that people with an increased risk of blood clots should avoid is smoking. It increases the chances of DVT, and it is something that most people find difficult to deal with. Talk to your doctor about the ways you could help yourself quit. Make sure you go to counseling if you feel you could use support from professionals.
Also, drinking excessively can be harmful to the overall body. However, enjoying a glass of wine from time to time can be beneficial because of the antioxidants that red wine contains. Moderation is always the key. It will relax you, but you must be very careful not to mix it with medications.
7. Go to check-ups regularly
Checkups are necessary so the doctor can have a clear idea about the symptoms you are having, so he can prescribe the medications you need. Monitoring blood pressure is essential because it will tell him more about the overall risks you are under. Adjusting the medication dosage and the schedule can only be done by a doctor, so make sure you follow up on all the appointments.
These were the main ways you can prevent blood clots. The lifestyle is crucial for being healthy. However, keep in mind that only by combining nutrition, exercise, stress management, proper treatment, and hydration, you can keep it under control. In case you notice any symptoms appearing such as the pain in the leg, the warmth on the painful body part, seek doctor’s advice immediately. The timely reaction is sometimes a matter of life and death since clots can cause fatal consequences. This is why it’s necessary to adjust your behavior to include all the activities that can largely contribute to your overall wellbeing and decrease the harmful ones.