Did you know that blood clots claim an average of one life every six minutes in the United States? That’s a terrifying statistic, but you can protect yourself by seeking medical attention if you have symptoms. Thus, go over the symptoms and some ways to reduce your risk of forming clots.

blood clot

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

You’ll have deep vein thrombosis if you form a blood clot deep in an arm or leg vein. Immediate treatment is needed to prevent the clot from breaking free and traveling to your lungs. Thus, call 911 or go to the emergency room if you notice the following in your arm or leg:

  • Swelling
  • Pain and tenderness that isn’t a result of an injury
  • Redness
  • Warmth

Symptoms of a Pulmonary Embolism

When a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it’s called a pulmonary embolism. The clot can block blood flow, causing life-threatening symptoms. Don’t delay seeking treatment if:

  • You are suddenly short of breath
  • Your chest hurts, and the pain gets worse when breathing
  • You are anxious or have a feeling of impending doom
  • Your heartbeat is irregular or racing
  • You’re coughing
  • Blood comes up when coughing
  • Your blood pressure drops
  • You’re sweating profusely

Once you arrive at the ER, the physicians will diagnose you quickly before formulating a treatment plan. You might require anticoagulants, thrombolytics, or another life-saving treatment.

5 Ways to Reduce Risk of Blood Clots

1. Stay active

Staying active will keep your blood flowing, making it less likely to clot.

2. Stay Hydrated

Blood clots are less likely to happen if you constantly stay hydrated.

3. Maintain a healthy weight

If you’re overweight, you’re at a higher risk for blood clots, so talk to your doctor about losing weight safely. Then maintain the ideal weight to stay at a lower risk level.

4. Don’t sit or stand in the same position for extended periods of time

Don’t sit or stand for over an hour at a time since that increases the risk of forming blood clots. If you have to be in one place for a prolonged period, change your position as often as possible to prevent blood from pooling.

5. Limit alcohol consumption and smoking

Regular smoking and alcohol consumption can put you at a higher risk of forming blood clots. Limit drinking alcohol and stop smoking if applicable.

Assess your risk level and consult with your physician if you’re in a high-risk group. High-risk groups include those who:

  • Are overweight
  • Smoke
  • Are pregnant
  • Recently underwent a surgical procedure
  • Have been diagnosed with blood clots in the past
  • Have certain medical conditions

If you’re in a high-risk group, talk to your doctor about managing your condition and lowering your risk. Your physician might recommend wearing compression stockings to keep the blood flowing. This might be a short-term solution until you get the risk factors under control.

Get Relief at Riverview Health ER & Urgent Care

Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care

Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care is the only health system in Hamilton County offering ER and urgent care services under one roof. Unlike most ER or urgent care centers, patients are only billed for the level of services they need. The ER is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The urgent care center is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. No appointments are not necessary for in-person visits; however, pre-registration is available.

Riverview Health Emergency Room Urgent Care has five convenient locations: