The Dangers of Blood Clots And What Symptoms To Look For

This week, there has been a lot of talk in the news about blood clots.  The sudden attention being drawn to the subject has opened up more dialogue about what a blood clot is, how dangerous it can be and what symptoms to look for.

Truck drivers lead a sedentary life as a result of the duties of the job.  Many often spend hours sitting behind the wheel.  This type of lifestyle is at the highest risk to develop blood clots. A 2007 study by  pLOS Medicine found that the more a person travels, the higher their risk for developing a blood clot.

Blood clots often from in the veins of the legs and symptoms often go unrecognized.  Not recognizing the symptoms of a blood clot can be life threatening.  If the clot travels to the lungs, it can result in a pulmonary embolism or PE.  PEs are responsible for 200,000 deaths a year.

What are the symptoms?

• Swelling of the arm, leg, ankle or foot
• Cramping of the arm, leg, ankle or foot
• Arm, leg, ankle or foot feeling warm to the touch.
• Sudden onset of chest pain or shortness of breath.

What can I do to prevent the development of a blood clot?

• Try to get out of your truck every 30-45 minutes and walk around your truck.
• If you can’t get out of your truck, flex your legs and roll your foot.
• Drink lots of water.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, including loose-fitting socks.
• Try to limit your sodium intake.

Who’s most at risk?

• People who sit for prolonged periods at a time.
• Those who are currently or have ever been treated for cancer.
• Those who have recently suffered a broken hip, pelvis or leg.
• Those who are obese.
• Those who have recently suffered a head injury or bruise.
• Those who have suffered a stroke.
• Those who have varicose veins.
• Those who have  heart trouble.
• Those who have had a clot before.
• Those who have recently undergone a surgery.
• Those who have a family history of blood clots.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources

I think I have a blood clot, now what?

If you think you might have a blood clot, go directly to the emergency room, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources urges.

Your doctor may give you a blood thinner or an anticoagulant.