Deep vein thrombosis occurs when clots form that eventually clog a vein in the leg and, as a result, are more common in people who smoke, take the birth control pill, or are overweight.
However, thrombosis can be avoided with simple measures, such as avoiding sitting for a long time, drinking water during the day, and wearing comfortable clothing. In addition, it is important to exercise at least twice a week, eat a balanced diet, rich in vegetables, and avoid smoking or drinking too much alcohol.
- It is important to inform your family doctor of previous cases of deep vein thrombosis or a family history of the disease.
- As compression stockings may be recommended.
- Especially during long trips or during work that requires a long rest period.
The 5 essential tips to prevent the onset of deep vein thrombosis are:
To avoid deep vein thrombosis, one of the simplest and most important tips is to avoid sitting too long, as this hinders blood flow and facilitates the formation of clots, which can eventually clog one of the veins in your legs.
Ideally, people who need to sit for a long time take regular breaks to get up and move their bodies, take a short walk or stretch, for example.
If it is not possible to get up to stretch and walk regularly, it is recommended to move or massage legs and feet every 30 minutes so that circulation is activated and clots are avoided.
A good tip to activate leg circulation while sitting is to rotate your ankles or stretch your legs for 30 seconds, for example.
Crossing your legs can directly interfere with venous return, i.e. the return of blood to the heart. Therefore, people at risk of clots are advised to avoid crossing the feathers regularly, as this facilitates blood flow.
In addition to avoiding crossing their legs, women should also avoid walking every day in high shoes, as this can also promote the formation of clots.
Wearing tight pants and shoes can also interfere with circulation and promote clot formation. Therefore, it is recommended to wear comfortable and well-fitted pants and shoes.
In some cases, elastic stockings may be recommended, as they are intended to compress the leg and stimulate circulation, and should be used with the advice of a doctor, nurse or physical therapist.
The consumption of at least 2 liters of water a day is essential, because in addition to being fundamental to the proper functioning of the body, water makes the blood more fluid, facilitates circulation and prevents the formation of clots.
In addition to ingesting fluids throughout the day, it is important to pay attention to food, focusing on foods that can stimulate blood circulation, reduce leg swelling and prevent thrombus formation, such as salmon, sardines, orange and tomato, for example.