3 Ways To Manage Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in your body's veins. If you feel persistent cramping in your muscles, it could be a simple issue or a more complex condition like DVT. If untreated or ignored, DVT may result in another condition called pulmonary embolism where the clot separates, travels through your body and blocks a lung artery. With nearly 400 Australians dying of a pulmonary embolism every year, it's important that you seek professional treatment from a vascular surgeon as quickly as possible. You can also do a few things on your own to manage DVT.

1. Ease Any Swellings And Pains From DVT With Proper Home Care Tips 

If you've been diagnosed with DVT, then merely getting treated at a hospital or seeing a vascular specialist regularly isn't enough. You need to take care of yourself in and out of your home. One way to care for your legs (if DVT is localised to the region) is to wear compression stockings. They are tight and create gentle pressure on your legs to prevent blood from clotting up. You should also keep the DVT-affected leg higher up if you're lying down to avoid clots. Make sure you get enough exercise and stay as active as possible to keep blood flowing. 

2. Make Dietary Changes To Prevent DVT-Related Complications 

DVT can lead to a range of health complications, so it's important that you look into your diet to try and minimise them. For example, overweight people tend to suffer from more DVT swellings because of the extra pressure on the area. It's important to try and lose some weight by eating healthier, fresher foods and reducing the junk meals you consume. Reducing salt and sugar intake not only helps to lose weight, but it also keeps sugar and pressure levels down. Make sure you supplement your changed diet with lots of fluid intake. 

3. Check With Your Doctor About Existing Medications 

It's likely that your doctor might prescribe some medications to help treat your DVT. But if you are taking any other medications, you must let your doctor know to avoid any additional risks that could arise from mixing. Even if you think that simple anti-inflammatory medication isn't an issue, let your vascular specialist know so that any reactions and side effects can be prevented. Your doctor may prescribe some alternate medication that can be used together with DVT medication. 

Managing DVT can be challenging, but it isn't impossible with the right attitude and direction.