As the name suggests, thrombosis prophylaxis is a therapeutic measure to prevent thrombosis. The danger of blood clots is in the further course of embolisms and heart attacks.
What is thromboprophylaxis?
A thrombosis is a blood clot (thrombus) that forms in the human vascular system or heart. Such a clot is formed by blood clotting. A thrombosis is a blood clot (thrombus) that forms in the human vascular system or in the heart. Such a clot is formed by blood clotting. This actually has the function of preventing the body from bleeding to death in the event of injury by closing wounds through the clumping of blood. However, clumping sometimes also occurs in uninjured vessels, in which case a thrombus can form. This obstructs blood flow and can have very serious consequences. A clot in an artery, for example, can result in a stroke or a heart attack. Both are caused by a lack of blood flow to the heart or parts of the brain, respectively. A thrombus in the veins can result in a pulmonary embolism. In fact, most thromboses occur in the veins.
Function, effect, and targets
Since thrombosis can be accompanied by very different symptoms and rapid action is always needed, thromboprophylaxis is particularly important. In case of doubt, it can save lives. Although the various preventive measures cannot always prevent thrombosis, the risk can be significantly reduced. The most important factor in thrombosis prevention is exercise. Most thromboses occur in the deep veins in the leg, especially in the calves (deep vein thrombosis DVT), which is why it is particularly important to keep this area moving. Almost all endurance sports such as swimming, cycling, jogging or walking are suitable for this purpose, as they stimulate the blood flow in the veins of the leg. But dancing can also be beneficial. Longer walks are also suitable for older people. Unsuitable sports for thrombosis prophylaxis are those that involve aprupt starts and stops, such as playing tennis. In addition, there are special vein gymnastics for patients at risk, as well as for anyone else who is interested. Exercise is also important when there are times when one must sit relatively immobile for long periods of time, such as during long-distance travel. If possible, get up and walk a few steps as often as possible on longer trips. If that is not possible, exercises with the feet that move the legs are also suitable. Such exercises are also very suitable for thrombosis prophylaxis in office jobs where one works sitting all day. If physical exercise is not possible, compression stockings are recommended to facilitate blood flow in the veins and thus minimize the risk of thrombosis. However, prolonged standing can also have a negative effect and should be avoided, especially in patients at risk. Adequate fluid intake is another important factor in thrombosis prophylaxis. Healthy people should drink about 1.5 liters per day, primarily beverages such as tea, mineral water or juice spritzers. Alcohol and coffee are unsuitable for thrombosis prophylaxis, as they dehydrate the body and thus further increase the risk of a clot. Other risk factors for clots are obesity and smoking. Weight loss, a balanced diet and giving up smoking help to reduce the risk of thrombosis. Patients who are already being treated (as a precaution) for thrombosis, for example with the anticoagulant heparin, should be sure to take their medications exactly as directed by their treating physician.
Risks and side effects
Thromboprophylaxis essentially consists of avoiding unnecessary risks. The risk of getting a life-threatening blood clot can be attributed to three factors, unfortunately not all of which can be influenced by behavioral rules. Too slow blood flow can be caused by a prolonged lack of exercise. Exercise, of course, provides a remedy, but it is not always possible, for example, if you are confined to bed for a long time. Varicose veins, some heart diseases and external pressure on the vessels are also a major risk in terms of thrombosis.Damage to the vessel walls promotes clotting, so that thromboses can occur. These can occur due to injuries, but also as a result of diseases and infections. A number of other factors cause blood clotting to change. Some of these factors can be influenced and are therefore important for thrombosis prevention. Lack of fluids, smoking, obesity and the use of hormone preparations are among these factors that can be influenced. For thromboprophylaxis, the elimination of all unnecessary risks is essential.
