World Thrombosis Day 2024: Don't ignore heaviness in your legs and sudden pain

You might experience a strange heaviness in your leg, almost like something is weighing it down. You may shrug it thinking it's just tiredness from the day, but soon you feel a nagging ache that worsens with movement. You could also notice swelling in that leg, making the skin feel tight and warm. These signs might seem minor, but they can indicate thrombosis, which can have serious consequences if not treated.

Thrombosis is a serious condition where a blood clot may lead to heart attack, stroke, or even death, says Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director and Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram. It is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel, which can block blood flow. This can happen in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis) and can lead to serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, or stroke. “Though genes play a role, lifestyle changes and medicines can reduce the risk drastically,” he says.

Dr Bhargava suggests the following lifestyle changes to prevent thrombosis:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight increases your blood-clotting tendency. To maintain a healthy weight, follow a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise.

• Stop smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your chance of developing blood clots. Quitting will significantly decrease your risk of thrombosis.

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise enhances blood flow and improves the health of your blood vessels, reducing the chance of blood clots. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• Limit alcohol intake: Alcohol abuse may contribute to the likelihood of blood clots. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.

• Manage stress: Prolonged stress can contribute to the formation of blood clots. Consider learning relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help dissipate stress.

Prevention:

It is essential to seek advice from your doctor regarding how to prevent thrombosis. Most people will require a combination of lifestyle changes and medications, depending on their risk factors. Taking proactive measures to prevent thrombosis can minimise the risks of serious health complications.