Give Heartburn The Heave-Ho: Tips For Easing Discomfort

I developed intense heartburn during my second pregnancy. I tried every pregnancy-safe home remedy I could find and nothing seemed to work. I was hopeful that once my daughter was born, it would improve. When it didn't, I spent a lot of time working with an internal medicine specialist and researching remedies online. I've found many different things that help in different ways. I decided to create this site to document the solutions that I've found and help others to find a way to manage their chronic heartburn as well. If you're struggling with persistent heartburn, I hope this information helps you find relief.

3 Ways To Reduce Your Risk Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Health & Medical Blog

Deep vein thrombosis is the medical term for a blood clot that forms deep inside one or both of your legs. This condition is a major concern because the blood clot can travel from your leg to other parts of your body, like your lungs, brain, or heart, where blood clots can be fatal. The condition can sometimes be caused by things you can't control, like your genes, it is often caused by preventable factors. Here are three ways to lower your risk of deep vein thrombosis. 

Don't sit for too long

Deep vein thrombosis can be caused by remaining motionless for an extended period of time. Many people know that being stuck in a cramped airplane seat for hours can cause clots, but sitting at your desk or on your couch all day is just as bad. This is because your blood flow slows down when you're not moving, which makes it easier for the blood to form clots. A recent study found that women who sat for more than 41 hours a week (less than 6 hours a day) have two to three times the risk of getting a clot. 

Quit smoking

Smoking can wreak havoc on your health in many ways, and one of these ways is by increasing your risk of deep vein thrombosis. For every ten cigarettes you smoke per day, your risk increases by 10.2%. This risk is even greater if you've been a long-time smoker. A person who has smoked for 40 years, averaging about one pack a day, has a 26.7% higher risk than a person who has never smoked! Since your risk will keep increasing if you keep smoking, try to quit.

Wear compression stockings

Compression stockings are specially designed, knee-high socks that prevent blood clots from developing in your legs. Your doctor may give you a prescription for these stockings if you have a high risk of getting a clot, for example, if you're recovering from surgery. You can also buy some types of compression stockings without a prescription, but since they are sold in different sizes and weights, you need to ask your doctor what type you should buy. 

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition, and while it's not completely preventable, there are many things that you can do to lower your risk. Avoiding prolonged sitting, not smoking, and wearing compression stockings can help you stay safe. If you feel that you might be at risk, talk to a specialist at a clinic like ICE, Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence, about other strategies to decrease your risk.


25 November 2014