In recent times, thrombosis has garnered significant attention due to its potential health implications.
But what exactly triggers the formation of blood clots and the associated risks?
This post delves into the mechanics of blood clot formation and explores strategies to mitigate the risks.
Contents
Learn how to prevent thrombosis & blood clots for a healthier life. Discover symptoms, risks & natural strategies
Unveiling venous thrombosis
Venous thrombosis refers to the development of blood clots or thrombi within deep veins or arteries, primarily in the legs or pelvic region.
While some clots remain asymptomatic, others can lead to considerable discomfort.
Swift diagnosis and immediate treatment are crucial for averting threats posed by clots.
However, deep vein clots carry greater dangers, as they can dislodge and travel throughout the body, causing embolism.
This perilous journey to the lungs is termed pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal condition if not promptly addressed.
Origins of venous thrombosis
Venous thrombosis is usually caused by a combination of one or more underlying conditions:
- Impaired blood flow: Bedridden immobility, surgical procedures, or hospital stays can slow down blood circulation in deep veins.
- Predisposition to clots: Genetic factors or cancer can heighten the risk of blood clot formation.
- Inflammation: The inner lining of veins might become inflamed due to factors like catheter insertion or intravenous injections.
Recognizing symptoms and taking action
Symptoms of thrombosis can come on suddenly or in a more sneaky way.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:
– one of your legs suddenly swelled up
– inexplicable pain or a strange tenderness in one leg
– lukewarm skin to the touch
– a change in skin color (blue, red, or very pale)
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Symptoms of pulmonary embolism
– sudden difficulty in breathing
– a sharp pain in the chest, especially when breathing in
– a bloody cough
– sudden discomfort
– a scary sensation
Managing risk factors
The risk factors for venous thrombosis are:
- recent major surgery
- cancer and its treatment
- major trauma or injury to the leg
- experienced thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- hospitalization for any acute illness
- recent immobilization
- pregnancy
- using the pill or taking hormone therapy
- familial predisposition
- obesity
Effective treatment and prevention
Clots like pulmonary embolism are treated with anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners.
These drugs stop the blood from thickening and clotting.
When the body dissolves clots, blood thinners keep them from clumping together to make them larger while preventing new clots from forming.
Compression socks or stockings may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling, residual clots, etc.
Proactive steps to prevent blood clots
What to do to prevent blood clots?
- stay active
- do not smoke – quit smoking
- maintain a healthy weight
In the hospital, the risk of blood clots is the subject of some prevention through injections of moderate doses of anticoagulants or the use of medical compression devices.
Be sure to discuss this risk with your doctor before any surgery to ensure prevention.
Move your legs as much as possible and try to walk little as quickly as possible.
Inform the medical staff of any abnormal chest or leg pain.
Natural approaches to thrombosis prevention
Some types of clots can resolve themselves naturally, although it is safer to see a doctor.
You can also prevent thrombosis by eating these foods:
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Omega 3
Foods rich in Omega 3 essential acids have specific properties to thin the blood while preventing the formation of clots.
You can find Omega 3s in fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, sardines, herring, or through plants like flaxseed oil or walnuts.
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Dark chocolate
Researchers have determined that consuming two tablespoons of dark chocolate per day may help prevent blood clots.
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that thin the blood as effectively as aspirin.
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Garlic and turmeric
These spices contain anti-inflammatories.
Turmeric contains curcumin which helps decrease and control inflammation.
This inflammation is a major cause of arteriosclerosis or the hardening of the arteries.
Curcumin also helps control cholesterol and triglycerides.
Consuming garlic regularly can prevent arterial problems.
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Pomegranate and grapefruit
These two fruits have antioxidant properties ensuring the prevention of arterial damage.
These natural antioxidants cause the body to produce abundant nitric oxide to maintain regular blood flow and thus prevent clots.
Pomegranate contains pectin which regulates cholesterol and thus reduces the risk of arteriosclerosis.
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Cranberry, grape, and cherry
Cranberries are high in potassium and may lower LDL cholesterol by raising HDL cholesterol which is the cause of many heart diseases.
Red grapes are an excellent source of lutein, a carotenoid essential in combating arteriosclerosis and the risk of aortic narrowing.
Cherries contain fiber which may be beneficial in controlling cholesterol.
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Vitamin K
Consuming foods rich in vitamin K one day and then discontinuing its consumption results in a significant variation in prothrombin level in the blood.
Foods high in vitamin K are green leafy vegetables.
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Hawthorn
Hawthorn offers protection due to the antioxidants it contains.
It can lower blood pressure and control the elasticity of blood vessels.
It is advisable to choose a supplement in the form of Hawthorn tincture (ad) for optimal effect.
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Tomato and sweet potato
There is a very high rate of lycopene, an antioxidant carotenoid very involved in the fight against arteriosclerosis.
Sweet potato helps maintain optimal blood pressure.
They also contain beta-carotene, folic acid, vitamin C, and potassium which help lower cholesterol levels.
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Pineapple and kiwi fruit
Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, has the property of dissolving fibrin, which is directly responsible for platelet aggregation.
It also destroys fibrin in blood clots by stimulating the production of plasmids.
It prevents platelets from sticking to the walls of blood vessels.
Kiwifruit contains nutrients, and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, copper, and magnesium that help prevent blood clots.
It also has anti-inflammatory action.
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Salicylates
Salicylates are compounds that prevent blood clots from forming.
They are found in many plants and spices such as thyme, turmeric, ginger, paprika, cinnamon, or cayenne pepper.
They are also present in certain fruits such as cranberry, apple, strawberry, blueberry, orange, plum, and grape.
Add to this list green tea, wine, pineapple juice, vinegar, and honey.
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Get moving!
Anything that induces muscle movement is great for preventing blood clots.
The energy expended on physical activity for 30 minutes 4 to 5 times a week varies between 600 and 1200 calories.
So walk, jog, swim, do aerobics, play sports, ride a bike!
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Dehydration
A dehydrated body is like an engine without lubricant.
The cells in the blood come together to form clots.
If you are being treated with blood thinners, be aware that alcohol can interfere with your treatment and significantly reduce their effectiveness.
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Rehabilitation after immobilization
Blood clot prevention exercises before a long trip or after surgery are a great idea.
Start with circular movements of the ankles clockwise and then back.
Continue with flexions and extensions of the joints of the toes, ankles, and knees.
Wear compression socks (15 to 30mmhg) (ad) to facilitate blood circulation.
Supplements for thrombosis prevention
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Omega 3
People who do not consume enough foods rich in Omega 3s should consider taking a supplement of these essential acids.
They are easily found in fish oil like this (ad).
The indicated dosage is 500mg per day.
If you have had an ischemic attack, or a heart attack, consider taking 1000mg per day (500mg twice a day).
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Folic acid (vitamin B9)
High levels of homocysteine can cause blood clots to form.
A combination of 400mcg of folic acid (ad), 1.3 milligrams of vitamin B6 (ad), and 2.4mcg of vitamin B12 (ad) can regulate the homocysteine levels and prevent the risk of thrombosis.
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Gingko Biloba
Gingko Biloba (ad), this plant widely used in Chinese pharmacopeia, has effects similar to aspirin.
Taking 40-300 milligrams per day helps thin the blood and thus prevent clots.
Avoid Gingko if you are already on blood thinners.
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Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that prevents the development of cardiovascular disease by reducing the risk of clots.
You should know that this fat-soluble vitamin exists in eight different forms and that, in your case, you should opt for the most active form, the alpha-tocopherol (ad).
The dosage indicated for an antioxidant effect is 65mg minimum per day (approximately 100IU) for adults.
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Vitamin K
Vitamin K is fat-soluble and highly indicated in the prevention of arteriosclerosis.
It ensures normal coagulation and fights against calcium deposits in the arteries.
There are two forms of vitamin k:
– vitamin k1 plays a vital role in blood clotting
– vitamin K2 controls calcium and acts on artery health
So, what to choose? Vitamin k1 or k2?
It may be a good idea to opt for a natural vitamin K2-MK7 (ad) which has a high level of bioavailability and acts for 76 hours.
Please consult your doctor if you are on anticoagulant therapy before any supplementation.
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Blueberry
Blueberries are not just a tasty little fruit.
It also has antioxidant properties which prevent both clot formation and plaque formation.
It can also improve heart and blood vessel contractions.
Go for an organic supplement like this (ad) and consider three intakes per day.
Otherwise, consume a cup of blueberries per day to benefit from the antioxidant effect.
Safeguarding against thrombosis for a healthier tomorrow
In the realm of health, knowledge truly is power.
By understanding the intricacies of thrombosis and its potential risks, you are taking a proactive step towards better health outcomes.
Remember, prevention is key, and staying informed empowers you to make the right choices for your well-being.
With knowledge and action, you have the power to safeguard against thrombosis and create a life that’s enriched by vitality and longevity.
