Any person suffering from blood clot issues is sure to experience pain and struggle. Visiting a vascular surgeon in a timely manner for treatment is imperative for recovery; however, there are preventative measures that can be taken to keep the condition from worsening. In addition to a timely doctor’s visit, you must avoid the things that can worsen the current state of your case. You might asking, “What can increase or worsen blood clot issues?” We’re here to help! While this blog entry will highlight a list of things you will need to avoid while going through the treatment process, we highly encourage you to first schedule an appointment to be seen by a vascular specialist as soon as possible.

Illustration of a blood clot passing through an artery.

1. Avoid Injuries As Much As Possible

At your appointment, a physician will likely prescribe you “clot fighting” medications known as anticoagulants or, more commonly – blood thinners. Taking these medications can make you bleed more than usual, even from smaller mild injuries. Therefore, you must be careful not to attain any new injuries that could trigger excessive bleeding. These minor injuries could be as simple as snipping your finger while trimming your nails or chopping vegetables. Consider preventative measures such as: wearing gloves while using any sharp tools, and safety gear while enjoying your hobbies and favorite outdoor spots. Furthermore, consult with your doctor to be mindful of what other activities can be harmful to you.

2.  Avoid Sitting For Long Periods Of Time

Sitting for too long in the same position restricts and slows the blood circulation within the body. It is recommended not to be seated for more than two hours consistently, at any given time. Instead, make sure to get up every now and then and take a walk around. Stretch your legs and even wiggle your toes to help get the circulation flowing again.

If you are already suffering from blood clotting, make sure to never cross your legs while sitting down. Sitting in this position can greatly affect your circulation and worsen blood clotting. Take necessary precautions and prepare if you are planning on taking a long flight or driving for extended hours.

3.  Cut Out Unhealthy Fats In Your Diet

When consumed in excess, fatty foods can cause plaque build-up in the blood vessels that increase the risk of heart disease and DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis). Steer clear of unhealthy trans-fats and reduce your intake of saturated fats, fatty cuts of red meat, or full-fat dairy – along with sugar and salt.

Be sure to check fat percentage before consuming any packed food. Take a moment to go through nutritional labels and identify which unhealthy food triggers may be present. Also be mindful of hidden sneaky aggressors that are hiding behind other names. For instance, sugars can be listed as ‘Fructose’ or ‘fruit juice’, or even ‘malt powder’. Similarly, trans fats can be listed as ‘partially hydrogenated oil’.

Analyze the nutritional content and consume only those food items that contain the least amount of sodium, sugar, and saturated trans fats. Eating healthier foods will decrease inflammation in the body and help combat any worsening of your condition.

If you are struggling with how to navigate diet with your condition, reach out to us and get started with one of our nutrition and weight loss specialists for help with food plans, or dietary consulting.

4.  Be Mindful Of The Supplements You Are Taking 

When you are prescribed blood-thinning medication, you must be extra cautious about taking natural herbal supplements and vitamins. This is because dietary supplements, including minerals and vitamins in either liquid or pill form, can negatively affect how blood-thinning medications work. These adverse reactions occur because the amount of vitamin K present in dietary supplements or natural herbs, varies upon product. It is not recommended to consume any herbs or supplements while on blood-thinning medication.

Consult with your doctor for more information on interactions for your specific medications.

5.  Eating The “Wrong” Foods

While this may go hand-in-hand with #3, this is an important point to cover. If you are on a blood-thinning medication, you must constantly be mindful of the food you are consuming. Even seemingly healthy food choices, such as spinach and broccoli, are high in vitamin K and can interfere with the medication you are taking. Furthermore, you’ll need to monitor your intake of mustard greens, brussels sprouts, spinach, kale, collard, and chard. Additionally, cranberry juice, green tea, and alcohol can adversely affect the normal functions of blood-thinning medication. We suggest to either neglect these foods completely, or keep their consumption to a particular level.

Again, always be sure to consult with your doctor for more information on interactions between your specific medications and foods or supplements.

Consult With An Expert For More Guidance

There are a large number of precautions one needs to take while suffering from blood clotting. While we do work to try and inform the world of these cautionary measures, the best step you can take is always to visit a vascular specialist for consistent treatment and examination. To ensure that your condition doesn’t get worse, consider calling us today!

With the help our trained expert surgeons, you will be able to avoid things that can worsen your situation and have an adverse effect on your health. We will monitor your health and work with you to implement necessary preventative lifestyle changes. At Laser Vascular Center, we can offer you a full scale approach to recovery, utilizing a full spectrum of therapies and advanced industry procedures. Our team of highly qualified vascular surgeons can successfully diagnose and treat vascular issues while ensuring you get relief as soon as possible.

 To schedule your appointment now, give us a call at (480) 788-5621 or visit our website for more information.

Fax: (480) 779 1277

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