If I were to conduct a survey and ask people to name the most common causes of death, they would probably name cancer, cardiovascular disease, and complications of viral infections.
However, few people would mention thrombosis, even though statistically it is among the leading causes of death. Stroke, heart attack and pulmonary embolism are immediate and fatal consequences of thrombosis.
Often we realize that we have a thrombosis when it is already life-threatening, but some symptoms can help us notice the disease in advance.
Here I would like to share with you some warning signs that you should pay special attention to when it comes to blood clots.
- If an artery is partially blocked by a blood clot, the limb may become cold.
Blood plays an important role in keeping our bodies warm. When the blood supply is disrupted by a blood clot, it is common to get cold in the fingers or toes, palms and feet – the areas of the body farthest from the heart. For example, if you notice that one foot is much colder than the other, it may be a sign that a blood clot has formed in that foot.
1. A sudden onset of aching pain in the leg or arm.
This is a symptom that should alert you, especially if you know for sure that you did not hit the place, there is no bruising or swelling (these are already signs that the clot is quite impressive). Moreover, the pain may go away and then reappear – this is a fairly typical condition when the clot is just beginning to form.
Such a symptom is often called silent, because the pain can appear for various reasons and you may not realize that it is thrombosis. Specialists warn: if the discomfort lasts for more than two weeks, then be sure to make an appointment with a doctor.
2. Swelling of the leg or arm.
Swelling can occur both in the place where the vessel is directly blocked, and spread to the entire limb. In this case, only one arm or leg is affected – the one in whose blood vessels the suspected clot is located.
3. Changes in skin color is a sign that immediately catches the eye.
A blood clot interferes with the normal circulation of blood. As a result, some blood vessels become overfilled with blood, while others suffer from a lack of blood. This can manifest itself in a change in skin color: on some parts of the affected limb it becomes red or bluish, on the contrary, on others, pale.
4. Change in skin temperature
In the area of the blood clot, the skin may regularly become hot and itchy. An increase in skin temperature can be felt to the touch.
5. The sensation of a weak pulse and abnormal blood pressure.
These may be warning signs associated with arterial thrombosis. It is recommended to pay attention to the difference in blood pressure measurement in both arms: if it is significant, it may be an additional sign of thrombosis.
6. Frequent bouts of nausea or vomiting
If you vomit regularly, it may be a symptom of thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels that supply blood to different parts of the intestines. This condition can be suspected if vomiting occurs but does not bring relief and you continue to feel nauseous.
What should you do if you show signs of thrombosis?
At the slightest suspicion, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Very important to know! Only a qualified doctor can decide which treatment method will be most effective when a thrombus is detected. Self-help in this matter can be deadly.
And do not relax. According to statistics, 3 out of 10 people who get rid of blood clots will develop blood clots again within the next 10 years. So make it a habit to monitor your health. Your life may depend on it.