According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, and its potentially fatal sequelae pulmonary embolism, or PE, are major health health problems affecting 350,000 to 600,000 Americans annually. It is estimated that DVT and PE cause the death of 100,000 Americans per year. Exercise and increased physical activity are important tools for the prevention of this potentially lethal health problem.
Definition, Risk Factors and Symptoms
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a clot has formed inside a vein, usually in a lower extremity. Sedentary lifestyle, venous insufficiency, obesity, prolonged bed rest or immobility due to travel, pregnancy, surgery, injury, birth control pills, cigarette smoking and hereditary blooddisorders are some of the well-known risk factors for DVT. The formation of a thrombus, or clot, in a deep vein in your legs can cause pain, swelling and warmth, but may have no symptoms.
Pathology of Pulmonary Embolism
One of the most dangerous complications of deep vein thrombosis is the risk that a portion of the clot may break off and become an embolus that blocks off a small or large artery in your lungs. This condition, known as pulmonary embolism, or PE, keeps your lungs from getting oxygen to your body. Symptoms may include dizziness, chest pains, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, coughing up blood, fainting or sudden death. Dangerous cardiac arrhythmia may also occur.
Exercise for Treatment
Deep vein thrombosis is generally treated with "blood thinning" medicines such as heparin and coumadin or warfarin, which inhibit clot formation. Compression therapy with elasticized stockings is also used to support the veins and reduce swelling. Exercise can decrease discomfort and enhance overall recovery from DVT when used in addition to blood thinning medications. Exercise therapy during the recovery phase of DVT is tailored for the individual by a health care provider.
Preventive Measures
The CDC recommends that when you have to sit for four or more hours, get up and walk around every two to three hours. Also raise and lower your toes while keeping your heels stationary on the floor, or raise and lower your heels while keeping your toes on the floor. Tighten and release your leg muscles intermittently, and drink lots of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT); April 8, 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Risk Factors; August 8, 2009
- Investigations Against Thrombolembolism: Mobility and Exercise After Deep-Vein Thrombosis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Are You At Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis?; September 13, 2010
