Blood clots occur when blood platelets stick together, forming a blockage in a vein or artery. This causes localized pain, swelling and can result in heart attack, stroke and even death if left untreated. To diagnose a blood clot, your physician will draw blood as well as perform a scan to find the blockage. Blood clots are not always noticeable by their symptoms, requiring close observation and reporting of any swelling or unusual feelings such as tingling or numbness.
Step 1
Visit your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Treatment cannot be administered until a blood clot is successfully detected through in office testing. According to the Wall Street Journal's Market Watch, blood clots are more likely to form from lengthy bed confinement, after major surgery or due to certain diseases such as coronary disease.
Step 2
Ingest prescription medications as directed by your doctor. "Stroke: Your Questions Answered" by Dr. Graeme J. Hankey states that anticoagulants are the more ideal treatment and most effective when eliminating blood clots. These medications such as warfarin or coumadin, cause the blood to thin and the blockage to dissolve without risking the clot's breakage.
Step 3
Cease smoking as soon as possible. According to Market Watch, smoking thickens your blood increasing risk of clot formation as well as inhibiting the healing process when taking anticoagulants. Smoking cessation groups and your doctor's help will make for better success at kicking the habit.
Step 4
Read all the materials your doctor provides to educate yourself about your condition, suggests the website Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer. Knowing what you are dealing with and how to take care of your body during treatment will allow you to heal without complications.
References
- Wall Street Journal Market Watch: Simple leg pain or a deadly blood clot?
- HRPCA: Blood-clotting -- A Common, but Dangerous, Cancer Side Effect
- "Stroke: Your Questions Answered"; Graeme J. Hankey: 2002
