Deep Vein Thrombosis ("DVT") is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs or pelvis. Known as a silent killer, DVT affects more than 2 million people each year. Of those 2 million affected, 600,000 people are hospitalized for related incidents and 200,000 people die from DVT complications annually. DVT is 100% preventable. Patients who are aware of their risk factors and are proactive in preventative actions are less likely to experience a thrombotic event.
When blood slows or veins are weak or damaged, the risk of a clot forming in the deep veins of a patient's leg or pelvis are dramatically increased. The danger of the blood clot formation is the risk that the blood clot breaks from the vein and travels to another location of the body. This is called an embolism. The clot can travel through the bloodstream to the brain, heart or lungs and cause serious health damage or even death.
Reduce the Risk
Know the risk factors:
• Smoking
• Active cancer treatment
• Pregnancy and the postpartum time period
• Major orthopedic surgery - total knee replacement; total hip replacement
• Bed rest or immobility
• Advanced age
• Obesity
Prevention:
• While in the hospital and in bed, ask the doctor and nurses for compression stockings or an intermittent compression device.
• During long air plane trips, get up and move around frequently.
• Exercise regularly.
• If you work at a computer, practice foot pumps throughout the workday.
• Don't wear tight or constrictive clothing.
What Happens When a Blood Clot Forms
The symptoms for the formation of a DVT may be mild to severe. Usually warmth, swelling and redness in the leg are noted by patients; some patients may not experience any symptoms at all. If the doctor suspects a thrombosis, they may order several tests including a d-Dimer test, ultrasound of the leg and a venogram. Upon confirmation that a clot is found, treatment with an anticoagulant begins. Although the anticoagulant will not break down the clot, the purpose of treating it is to prevent the clot from getting any larger and it moving to the lungs. Patients who experience a DVT are more likely to experience another thrombotic event and require long term prevention with blood thinners and/or compression stockings.
Knowing the risk factors and taking an active approach to preventing a deep vein thrombosis are the most effective tools against DVT. Patients who are preparing for major surgery and are expected not to be able to fully ambulate are at the greatest risk and should examine their options with their doctor.
Source : Enzine
0 komentar:
Posting Komentar