Blood clots are a serious health condition that often go unnoticed until they suddenly become an emergency. The Vascular Center, located at RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, shares the following information on warning signs, personal risk factors, and preventative measures to take.
What is a Blood Clot?
Our bodies are designed to form clots when we are injured. This natural process helps stop bleeding and allows wounds to heal. However, problems occur when clots form inside veins without an injury.
One of the most common types is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) which typically forms in veins of the leg. Possible signs of DVT include swelling, pain, warmth, or redness/skin discoloration in the affected area.
If a portion of the clot breaks loose, it can travel through the blood stream and cause a Pulmonary Embolism (PE), a serious condition that can affect breathing and place significant strain on the heart. Possible signs of a pulmonary embolism include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain (especially with deep breathing), a fast heart rate, feeling lightheaded, or coughing (sometimes with blood).
If someone experiences symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, it is a medical emergency.
Who Is at Risk?
When you know your risk, you can take steps to protect yourself.
Risk factors include:
- Long periods of sitting (travel, desk jobs)
- Recent surgery or hospitalization
- Pregnancy or postpartum period
- Birth control or hormone therapy
- Cancer
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history of clotting disorders
- Previous blood clots
- Age over 60
Lifestyle Changes That Protect Your Heart and Lungs
Prevention often starts with simple daily habits. These aren’t complicated changes, but they can significantly reduce risk.
- Move regularly: Don’t sit for hours without standing or walking.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can increase clot risk.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Stop smoking.
- Follow medical advice carefully if you’re on blood thinners.
- Use compression stockings if recommended.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection often turns a potential emergency into a manageable condition. Vascular Ultrasound can play a crucial role in this early detection. It’s non-invasive, safe, and highly effective at identifying clots before they become catastrophic.
When a clot is found early:
- Treatment can begin immediately
- The risk of it traveling to the lungs decreases
- Complications can be prevented
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The Vascular Center, located at RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, offers state-of-the-art technology for evaluating and diagnosing the vascular system for arterial and venous diseases and disorders. The Vascular Center is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission.