Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that many seniors are more susceptible to than they realize. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deeper vein in the body, usually in the legs. These clots can break loose and end up in other parts of the body, like the lungs. There are steps that seniors can take at home to reduce their risk of deep vein thrombosis, and veterans home care services can help.
Defining Deep Vein Thrombosis
Blood clots can form in the legs because these veins are not only farther away from the heart, but also because these veins can be more prone to damage. DVT tends to occur in the legs, but it can really occur in any vein. When these clots form, they can partially or completely block the blood flowing through those veins. The big problem comes when the clot comes loose and travels to other areas of the body, blocking blood flow in that area suddenly.
Warning Signs and Complications
Seniors who experience DVT may have warning signs before they develop a clot. Chronic leg swelling, increased pressure in the veins, and sores that don’t heal in that area are just a few of the warning signs. Other warning signs can include throbbing pain in the area, warm skin in that area, or tenderness when touching the area of the clot. The biggest complication is always the worry that the clot travels rapidly to another part of the body. The most common complication is a pulmonary embolism, when the clot travels to blood vessels in the lungs and blocks blood flow there.
Risk Factors for DVT
Some people are more susceptible to DVT than others, and veterans in particular may have health issues that contribute to DVT. Smoking, being overweight, and health issues like cancer and heart failure can be contributing factors for deep vein thrombosis. Seniors who sit for long periods of time or who travel for long periods by car or plane may also be more susceptible to DVT.
Preventing DVT in Seniors
For seniors who are more prone to DVT, making some small changes can offer big benefits. Increasing physical activity, especially standing up every hour and moving around even a little bit, is a great start. Staying properly hydrated and avoiding vices like excessive alcohol and smoking can also help. Seniors can work with their doctors to come up with a full plan that meets their particular needs.
Getting Extra Help
So often, it helps a lot for seniors who are at risk of developing DVT to have some extra help. Veterans home care providers can assist with reminders to move and drink plenty of fluids. They also help to keep seniors company and can watch for signs of trouble. Veterans care providers can assist with tasks like changing clothes, which can become more difficult if seniors are dealing with new clothing items like compression socks.
Avoiding deep vein thrombosis and coping with daily life challenges is a lot easier with help from professional caregivers. Veterans care can improve quality of life for seniors in other ways, too, making their lives both easier and safer.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans Home Care in Covington, LA, please contact the caring staff at BrightCare Homecare today at (985) 224-0404
BrightCare Homecare is a top provider of home care services in the Northshore areas including Mandeville, Covington, Madisonville, Hammond, Ponchatoula, Slidell, Lacombe, Abita Springs, Goodbee, St. Tammany Parish, and more.
Through a personalized care plan, BrightCare HomeCare provides the necessary services and care to cater to your unique personal and health needs. With us, we ensure around-the-clock services and supervision to help achieve optimum health and wellness.
We are a top provider of home care services in Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, New Iberia, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Opelousas, Sunset, Crowley, Abbeville, Scott, Cecilia, Port Barre, Iota, and the surrounding areas.
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