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Blood Clotting Coagulation – Possible Causes, Prevention, And Treatment

Blood clotting coagulation is a life saving process when it occurs externally. On the other hand when it occurs internally (arteries and veins) it can, and often is, a life threatening occurrence which must be kept under control.

What can cause blood clots in the veins?
In many instances blood clot coagulation does not produce any discernable symptoms until the clot blocks blood flow to the brain, heart, or other area of the body. At this point a cascade of series symptoms may appear for nowhere; in some cases leaving only seconds before permanent damage occurs.

In reality there are just a few options for preventing blood clotting coagulation with none of them being completely foolproof.

There are 15 primary culprits that can lead to internal blood clots. They are: advanced age, being bed bound, cancer, heart attack, heart failure, a hypercoagulable state (a blood clotting disorder), major surgery, obesity, paralysis, leg fracture, hip fracture, pelvic fracture, a history of blood clots, inactivity, stroke, and the use of oral contraceptives.

As you may have noticed many of the above causes are commonplace in an aging population (with the exception of oral contraceptives) making risk recognition an important part of any prevention plan.

Prevention

Given the dangerous nature of these tiny globs of blood platelets and fibrin, and the shortage of effective treatment methods, doctors tend to focus their attention on taking steps to prevent their formation.

Generally a person who is vulnerable to clotting should try to stay as active as possible, even if they are be or wheelchair bound or have fallen victim to rheumatoid arthritis. Regular travelers, computer gamers, or anyone who stays seated for long periods of time should make a special effort to get up and walk around at least once every couple of hours.

If a person has undergone a surgical procedure the risk of clotting can be reduced substantially by wearing elastic stockings.

If a person is bedridden they should enlist the help of a close friend, family member, nurse, or homecare professional to help them get enough exercise to at least keep the blood moving.

For those who have leg paralysis, or another medical condition that prevents leg movement, intermittent air compression devices can provide rhythmic external pressure to keep the legs moving in the thighs and legs.

What about medications and supplements?

There are only a handful of drugs prescribed for clotting. They are heparin, low molecular weight heparin, and warfarin (Coumadin). Each has its special niche which your doctor can fully explain.

As far as non prescription medications to prevent/or reduce the risk of blood clot coagulation, the two most often suggested are aspirin and omega 3 fish oil. It is important to point out that omega 3 supplements may amplify the effects of other blood thinners, making caution is the word of the day.

While the combination of aspirin and omega 3 fish oil may be helpful under certain circumstances (such as cardiovascular disease), they should be only taken together under the guidance and supervision of your doctor.

By: R.D. Hawkins

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R.D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic consumer advocate for natural health and natural living with over 10 years experience in the field. To learn more about omega 3 fish oil and its many health benefits Click Here

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