Blood Clots

A blood clot ("thrombus") occurs when blood converts from a liquid to a solid state. The normal function of a blood clot is to stop bleeding when you injure yourself.

Blood clots can occur in a deep vein (a vein that does not show through the skin surface) or in a superficial vein (one you can see through the skin).

Superficial clots are not generally a high risk. They can be treated with a warm compress and removing the cause of the clot (such as a catheter).

Blood clots can become a problem when they occur in a deep vein for two reasons:

• A clot can keep blood from moving normally.
• A clot could move to an area such as your lungs and cause a big problem.

Risk factors for deep vein blood clots include:

• Immobility. (When blood does not move easily through deep veins, it becomes stagnant. Stagnant blood tends to form a clot.
• Injuries which lead to immobilization
• Pregnancy
• Use of estrogens
• Being overweight
• If you previously had a clot, you are more prone to getting another blood clot.

Diagnosis generally starts with a discussion with your doctor as well as an examination. Suspicion that you may have a clot leads to a diagnostic test. The most common test these days is through the use of ultrasound. If you do have a blood clot, there are a variety of old and new medicines available. Speak with your doctor to determine which is the best for you. (If there is a question, Survivorship A to Z, provides a tool to help you determine which is the best from you particular point of view. See To Lern More)

NOTE: To reduce risk of experiencing a blood clot, avoid immobility.

• If you are immobile, try to move as early and as often as possible. Avoid prolonged periods where your extremeties or overally body are not being mobile.
• When travelling, get up and move around at least every two hours - more if possible.