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How to Treat Thrombosis

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Thrombosis is a condition involving a clot, or thrombus, in a vein or artery. A common form of thrombosis is deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, which is a clot in a vein deep within the leg. Causes of thrombosis include slow or sluggish blood flow, undue pressure or injury to a vein, the tendency for a person's blood to clot quickly or an inflammation of a vein's inner lining. Although some cases of thrombosis can be moderate, this condition can be life-threatening if it occurs in a deep vein, and will require immediate attention and treatment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

    Treat Thrombosis

  1. Step 1

    Obtain and wear a pair of graduated compression stockings. These will help with the swelling.

  2. Step 2

    When sitting or lying down, elevate the affected area whenever possible. This will cut down on blood flow to the leg and minimize pressure on the vein.

  3. Step 3

    Ask for a prescription for anticoagulant medications to cut down on the blood clotting.

  4. Step 4

    Learn about thrombolysis to see if it is required. This involves medication delivered intravenously to dissolve clots.

  5. Step 5

    Consider a procedure that involves inserting a tiny vacuum-like device to remove a clot that has been softened with anticoagulant medication.

  6. Step 6

    Eat a healthy, balanced diet. It is well-known that excess weight is associated with blood clots.

  7. Step 7

    Limit alcohol consumption. The maximum amount of alcohol per day is no more than two glasses.

Tips & Warnings
  • Although exercise may not minimize clots that have already formed, it may be a good prevention against future clots.
  • Become educated on the various treatments for thrombosis. The Vascular Disease Foundation is a thorough source for treatment information (see Resources below).
  • Anticoagulants prevent clots from forming, as well as treat existing clots. The clots end up being dissolved in the body.
  • Risk factors of thrombosis include age (being over 40), being in a later trimester of pregnancy, smoking, engaging in little or no physical activity, a history of congestive heart failure, severe obesity, varicose veins, estrogen treatment and chronic respiratory failure.
  • A person's circumstances may make her more susceptible to thrombosis, such as cancer medications that are conductive to blood clotting or prolonged bed rest.
  • Once clots are removed or sucked out, stenting or angioplasty may be needed to keep the vein open. This is most common for veins in the pelvic area.
  • Thrombosis requires continued monitoring, as it can have several reoccurrences. Proper diagnosis is important to treat this condition properly.
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