How to decrease the risk of deep vein Thrombosis for people with Thrombophilia?
People with thrombophilia have a higher tendency to form blood clots, hence they should adapt a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and regular exercise. Certain lifestyles and situations should be avoided in order to decrease the chance of developing a blood clot.
Avoid being immobilized (such as long airplane flights or car rides)
People with thrombophilia can easily develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if they are traveling and sitting in a plane or car for extended hours. Standing up and walking regularly helps to encourage blood flow and blood circulation, thus decreases the risk of blood clots.
If bedridden, change body positions regularly
People with thrombophilia can also develop DVT if they are bedridden due to illness, as there is a lack of blood circulation. If the person is unwell and cannot move on his own, the caregiver should help to change his or her body position every hour or two. The legs should also be elevated to promote venous drainage back to the heart.
Avoid being overweight
People who are overweight or obese have a higher chance of forming blood clots. People with thrombophilia should exercise more and try to lose extra weight, so the blood pressure and venous pressure to the legs can be reduced.
Stop smoking
Smoking should be avoided, especially for people with thrombophilia. Avoiding smoking will help to maintain healthy blood vessels, and avoid formation of blood clots in arteries or veins.
Avoid dehydration
People with thrombophilia should intake an adequate amount of fluid, as dehydration can cause blood to thicken, which increases the chance of developing blood clots.
Be careful with medications
Some medications such as hormone replacement therapy or oral birth control pills can increase the risk of developing blood clots. People with thrombophilia should avoid these medications. There are certain situations that simply cannot be avoided, so people with thrombophilia have to proceed with caution, and watch out for warning symptoms of a blood clot and seek medical attention if necessary.
Surgery
People who have to undergo surgery have a higher risk of developing DVT. This is due to immobilization in hospital. People with thrombophilia should try to change their body position and try to move their limbs if they can. They should also wear pressure stockings that compress the lower part of the legs to improve circulation and prevent blood clots from developing.
Pregnancy
As pregnancy can increase coagulation factors in blood, people with thrombophilia have a higher risk of developing blood clots, leading to pregnancy problems or miscarriages. Depending on the medical history and type of the blood-clotting disorder, the doctor may advise an anticoagulant treatment during pregnancy.
