Signs of Blood Clots After Surgery
People who have undergone surgery are at risk for a blood clot to develop. Most blood clots form in the lower legs, called deep vein thrombosis. These blood clots can break off and travel to other parts of the body, causing heart attack or stroke.
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Definition of an Internal Blood Clot
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Blood clotting is a process in which platelets and red blood cells along fibrin, a type of protein, form a clump to stop bleeding after a blood vessel has been injured. Scabbing occurs when this process happens at the surface of the skin. Internal clotting, or clotting that takes place inside a blood vessel, can be dangerous. Although most clots that form will be dissolved by the body naturally, one that continues to form inside a vein or artery can get to to point that they block blood flow.
Dangers of a Blood Clot
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When blood clots inside a vein or artery, it can block blood flow. Depending on where this occurs in the body, this can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Blood clots can break off from where they originally form and travel to other parts of the body, such as the heart, brain or lungs. A blood clot blocking an artery in the lung leads to an pulmonary embolism, which can prove fatal.
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Symptoms of Blood Clots
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Deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot that forms in the legs, can be indicated by an unexplained and unexpected pain in the leg or a swelling of the leg. A severe and unexplained headache after the procedure can be a sign of a blood clot in the brain. A stabbing pain under the breast can signify a blood clot in the lung. This pain may be dull. Another sign of a blood clot in the lung is a sudden shortness of breath, dizziness or a bloody cough. The thing to look for is if the pain does not reduce by sleep or rest.
Blood Clots After Surgery
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People who have had recent surgery are at a higher risk to develop blood clots, especially if they are confined to bed rest or become inactive following the surgery. In addition, surgery, as an internal injury, increases the risk of a clot forming. People who have just undergone surgery are urged to move around after the surgery to reduce their risk.
Treatment and Prevention of Blood Clots
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If you suspect that you suffer from deep vein thrombosis, do not massage or rub the area, as this can help dislodge the clot to travel to other, more life-threatening locations. After surgery, people are more at risk for blood clots if they remain sedentary, so it is important to move around and try to be active after surgery, within reason. Blood thinner can be taken to prevent blood clots from forming. Aspirin is an over-the-counter blood thinner. Once a blood clot is confirmed by a doctor, a shot of Heparin is often administered. Another prescription drug to eliminate blood clots is Warfarin, which is taken orally. Always consult your doctor before beginning any drug regimen.
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