How to Prevent Blood Clots in the Veins

Thousands of people die each year from pulmonary embolisms, which occur when a blood clot breaks loose from a vein, usually within the leg or arm, and travels through the body. The blood clot bursts because it has become lodged in a vein too small to allow it to continue to travel. This causes sudden death. Blood clots are extremely serious and most common in patients that have experienced a heart attack, stroke or some kind of surgery. It's important that your doctor follow up with an MRI, CAT scan or ultrasound to detect blood clots.

Things You'll Need

• Healthy diet
• Medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Engage in regular exercise. It's extremely important to stay active, and exercise on a regular basis. This can prevent blood clots from forming in the legs and arms. Sitting too long in one position or crossing your legs for long periods of time can cause poor circulation and a blood clot may form. Maintain a healthy weight, so that you can remain active to prevent any clotting. Too much pressure on the knees and legs can also cause poor circulation.

• 2

  Take any prescribed medications. This is a common method of treatment/prevention for blood clots. Blood thinners, such as Coumadin, are often prescribed to patients that are prone to clotting. Clot busters and anticoagulants decrease the blood's ability to clot. There are a number of medications on the market to prevent clotting, including Warfarin and Plavix. You should speak with your physician about which medication is best for you.

• 3

  Wear loose-fitting clothing. Clothes that contain elastic and are too tight around the arms, waist and legs can cause poor circulation. Too-tight clothing can also cause you to develop varicose veins. Varicose veins are a sign of blood clots and oxygen not flowing through your veins properly. Blood clots break off mainly in the leg. By wearing loose clothing, you're making sure that your blood is flowing properly to your heart.

• 4

  Maintain a healthy diet. The trigger effect from not eating healthy is deadly. Eating foods that are known to clog your arteries can lead to a stroke and/or a heart attack. People that suffer from these types of illnesses are prone to blood clots. It's important that you avoid fatty foods, and eat six light meals per day. Avoid fried foods or foods that can give you heartburn. Eat foods that are high in fiber, and avoid salt. Consult with a nutritionist about which foods to eat and the ones that you should avoid.