Some diseases do not distinguish between young and old, their symptoms are often silent or similar to ordinary diseases. Like excessive clotting that can lead to thrombosis, this disease kills half a million people in Europe each year. It is however important to be very vigilant and attentive to the signals sent by the body in order to treat rather. So let's discover what thrombosis is, its symptoms and its risk factors!
What is thrombosis?
Thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in a vein or artery and obstructs it. Blood clotting occurs when blood flow is slowed by immobilization of a limb (legs) or by an obstacle (atheroma). The most serious complication of venous thrombosis is pulmonary embolism, where the clot detaches itself from the place where it has formed and migrates to the pulmonary artery, which can lead to sudden death.
Blood clots in deep vein thrombosis can be caused by anything that prevents blood flow or normal coagulation, such as vein injury, surgery, certain medications, and lack of physical activity.
This disease can be very dangerous because it can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Symptoms of thrombosis
Here are some of the symptoms of this disease:
1. A pain in the legs as well as cramps.
2. The inexplicable cough, especially the one that lasts a long time for no apparent reason.
3. Chest pain and dyspnea may indicate the presence of a blood clot in the lung area as well as other heart conditions.
4. Shortness of breath, pain when breathing deeper and inability to breathe deeply.
5. Swelling of lower organs including the legs.
6. Red or discolored skin on the leg.
If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to see your doctor as soon as possible. Do not neglect any symptoms!
Risk factors for thrombosis
Many factors can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis:
Extended rest in bed: For example during a long stay in hospital or paralysis. When the legs stay still for long periods, the calf muscles do not contract to facilitate blood circulation, which can increase the risk of blood clots.
Injury or surgery: Vein injuries or surgery may increase the risk of blood clots.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy increases the pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs. Women with inherited bleeding disorders are particularly at risk. The risk of blood clots during pregnancy can persist for up to six weeks after delivery.
Oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy: Both can increase the ability of your blood to clot.
Excess weight or obesity: Overweight increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs.
Smoking affects blood clotting and circulation, which can increase the risk of thrombosis.
Cancer: Some forms of cancer increase the substances in your blood that cause the formation of blood clots.
Lack of physical activity: When the legs stay still for hours, the calf muscles do not contract, so blood clots can form in the calves.
Food for a good circulation of blood:
In order to maintain blood flow and prevent blood clots, here are some examples of foods to promote:
Foods containing vitamin C: fruits, especially citrus, kiwi, strawberries, cherries, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes.
Foods containing vitamin E: dried fruits, avocado.
Foods containing flavonoids: fruits and vegetables of red or dark color (grape, plum, pomegranate) and vegetables (tomato, eggplant, red cabbage).
Foods containing Omega 3 fatty acids: fish (especially salmon, mackerel, anchovies) and dried fruits.
Potassium rich foods: bananas, vegetables, dried and dehydrated fruits, potatoes.
Foods containing fiber: fruits, vegetables and whole grain cereals (bread, pasta and rice).
Never forget:
Avoid sitting. If you have had surgery or have been bedridden for other reasons, try moving more frequently. If you sit for a while, do not cross your legs, which can impede blood circulation. If you travel a long distance by car, stop every hour or so and take a short drive. If you are flying, get up or walk from time to time.