Deadly blood clots

Thrombosis can affect anyone: whether on long journeys, after surgery, or due to prolonged sitting. Solveig Haw, physician and health expert at DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung AG, explains the symptoms to look out for and the preventive measures that are advisable. She explains how effective vascular protection works and how it can be easily integrated into everyday life.

What is thrombosis?

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) in a blood vessel, usually in the deep veins of the legs. There, it obstructs or blocks blood flow. The danger of thrombosis is often underestimated. This is because “the clot can damage the vessels or, if it breaks loose and travels up the body, even cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism,” warns Solveig Haw, physician and health expert at DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung AG.

Who is at risk?

Risk factors include lack of exercise, for example after surgery, older age, obesity, smoking, hereditary coagulation disorders, and hormone therapies such as the pill. According to the so-called Virchow triad, there are three main factors that promote thrombosis: damage or changes to the vessel wall, slowed blood flow, for example due to prolonged sitting or lying down, and an increased tendency of the blood to clot. “Anyone who has had thrombosis once is particularly at risk of developing it again,” adds Haw.

Recognizing warning signs

Many people affected do not take the symptoms of thrombosis seriously at first or are unable to identify them. “Typical symptoms include swelling, red-purple skin discoloration, or a feeling of tension in the calf,” explains the DKV health expert. The affected leg often feels warmer than the other, and bluish skin discoloration or sensitivity to pressure and pain when walking may also occur. In such cases, it is important to see a doctor quickly. “The earlier thrombosis is detected, the better it can be treated,” says Haw.

How to keep the blood flowing

The best protection against thrombosis is physical activity. This does not have to be strenuous workouts; small exercises in between can make a difference. “At your desk, for example, simple movements such as rocking your feet, circling your toes, or tensing your calf muscles can help,” says Haw. If you sit for long periods of time, you should get up and stretch your legs every now and then. Drinking the right amount of fluids is also important, as water improves blood flow. At least 1.5 to 2 liters per day is recommended. Compression stockings can be a useful addition, for example, if someone is not yet fully mobile after an operation or during a long flight. Thrombosis stockings support the veins in transporting blood back to the heart and can thus prevent it from pooling in the legs. “Compression stockings are not a sign of age or weakness, but a smart protective mechanism for the vessels,” says Haw.

Pulmonary embolism: when the thrombus travels to the lungs

Pulmonary embolism is a potentially life-threatening complication of thrombosis. Its severity ranges from mild, circulatory-stable cases, which can sometimes be chronic, to dangerous acute situations with shock and circulatory failure. Blood clots can be carried through one or more pulmonary arteries into the lungs, where they block blood vessels and prevent oxygen uptake. Sudden shortness of breath is the most common warning sign. Many sufferers also report sharp chest pains that worsen when breathing. “If you experience these symptoms, call the emergency doctor immediately, because every minute counts,” says Solveig Haw.