It’s true that the best way to avoid COVID-19 is by sheltering-in-place and social distancing – but being safe does not mean staying sedentary. In fact, sitting in one place for hours can lead to health problems, including dangerous blood clots.
Immobility invites the formation of blood clots in our bodies, including Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Unaddressed, DVT could lead to the potentially fatal condition known as a pulmonary embolism, which is what happens when a clot leaves the leg and travels to the lungs.
“When you are stuck inside all day, it sets up a dangerous situation, especially for elderly patients, if they do not stay active,” said board-certified vascular surgeon and vein specialist Charles Moomey Jr. M.D., FACS. “When you are mobile, you engage your calf muscles, and that pushes blood up and through the veins in your legs. When you are not mobile for an extended period then your blood is stagnant; it then begins to thicken and a clot can form.”
The good news is that DVT is preventable. Dr. Moomey and the team at Longstreet Clinic Vascular & Vein put together some tips for how to stay active while staying at home so that you and your loved ones can prevent dangerous blood clots. You’ll also get the lowdown on signs and symptoms of DVT.
