The Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) warned about thrombosis, a condition that occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in the body’s veins, usually in the legs. It is considered a serious disease, since it can trigger various ailments that put life at risk.
Blood clots that occur in the veins of the calf, thigh or pelvis can break loose and travel through the bloodstream, explained the person in charge of the Headquarters of Medical Benefits, José Daniel Figueroa Alonzo said they can get stuck in the chest and thereby block blood flow and cause a pulmonary embolism, he said.
He explained that thrombosis occurs more frequently in the legs, since the blood that goes from the heart to the feet circulates through the arteries. “Once in the foot, through the capillaries, the blood returns through the veins to the heart and then to the lungs, to be oxygenated. When blood clots inside a vein, it pools and because of this it becomes swollen and painful,” she said.
Likewise, Figueroa Alonzo stressed that there are different causes that can cause this condition, age (it is more common around 60 years old), genetics, and lifestyle. The specialist commented that to prevent the appearance of thrombi, it is advisable to practice sports such as walking, swimming and cycling, keeping your legs active to avoid standing or sitting a lot.
He advised wearing comfortable clothes, because, he pointed out, tight clothing compresses the veins of the legs and this hinders microcirculation, so varicose veins and cellulite could also appear. “In older adults, bone fractures, mainly in the hip and legs, can trigger thrombosis; and in some cases, the skin is sore along the affected vein,” she added.
The doctor commented that actions can be taken to prevent the formation of blood clots, including, if you are sitting for long periods when traveling, exercising the muscles of the lower legs; Get out of bed and move around as much as possible after surgery or illness. He pointed out that if the thrombosis is deep, the person may need treatment.
He pointed out that this condition can cause many problems if it is not treated in time, for this reason, through the Social Security communication area, he exhorted the beneficiaries so that if they present any discomfort, they go to the Family Medicine Unit (UMF) assigned to assessment and professional management, with the intention of preventing any fatalities in the future.