Blood clots develop when platelets and plasma proteins get thick. They eventually form a mass that is semisolid. There are a lot of things that can start this process. In some instances, it starts when a person is injured. Or clots may begin to form in blood vessels that do not have any injuries that are clearly identifiable.
What makes blood clots so dangerous is that although they develop in one part of the body, they can quickly travel to other parts of the body, causing unbelievable harm. Some of the conditions that are often associated with their development include things like deep vein thrombosis, heart arrhythmias, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, stroke, and obesity.
All blood clots are potentially dangerous. You should seek emergency care if you think you have a clot and you are dealing with symptoms including a fast heartbeat, weaknesses or numbness in your face or arms, difficulty speaking or understanding what people are saying, or a change in your vision. All of these are signs or symptoms that you may have a blood clot that is affecting your health.
There are certain things that you can do to avoid the risk of a blood clot, or at least minimize the risk. For example, do not sit in the same place for a long period of time. If you are on a long airplane trip or on a long bus trip, you need to get up and move around periodically. If you are traveling extensively by car, pull over every couple of hours to move around.
Many blood clots form in the aftermath of surgery. If you have surgery or you have been confined to bed rest, you need to follow the doctor’s indications. However, as soon as you can get up, the better it is going to be for you.
Dehydration is another common cause. This is why many people experience blood clots when traveling. They are so focused on getting from point A to point B that they do not stop and take the time to get enough fluids.
Since lifestyle factors such as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the chances of you getting a blood clot, it is good to make changes in your lifestyle if you feel that you are at risk. These changes could include things like losing weight, exercising, stopping smoking, and changing your diet to include fewer foods that can contribute to their development.
In many cases, untreated blood clots will require medical attention. This is especially true if they develop in a place like your leg and travel to sensitive parts of your body such as your lungs, your heart, or your brain.
If you suspect you may be developing a blood clot, you can turn to our team at Shaheen Vascular in Mountain View, CA. Let us point you in the right direction when it comes to the right treatment for you. Contact us today to book a consultation!
