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Deep Vein Thrombosis: Would You Know The Signs?

IN a world where long haul travel, be that by road, rail, air or sea is now the norm, we find ourselves sat still for longer and longer. While only one risk factor for getting a deep venous thrombosis (DVT), the condition is among the top concerns that holiday makers attend their GP to discuss before a proposed journey.

Indeed, anyone who is envisaging travelling six hours or more is wise to consider the possibility of a DVT. Although a DVT is not life threatening, if a portion of the clot breaks off, it may travel up to the lungs, where it is referred to as a pulmonary embolus (PE).

A clot large enough to block the main blood vessel to the lungs is rapidly fatal.

Normally, blood flows in the veins from the feet upwards to the right side of the heart. If stood up, this flow is against gravity.

The calf muscles, activated by movement, squeeze these veins to help the blood back up to the heart. If for any reason this flow is interrupted, a clot may form.

The risk factors for a clot are divided into three categories. The first is sluggish blood flow, for example a period of immobility while travelling, or after an operation. Certain genetic conditions make the blood thicker, as do contraceptives and HRT containing oestrogen, smoking and obesity. The third category is direct injury to a blood vessel itself.

A DVT may have no symptoms whatsoever, and over time the clot may be broken down by the body without the person ever having been aware.

However, symptoms to look out for are a painful, swollen, red lower limb, which is larger than the opposite side.

It is unusual to get clots in both legs, but both legs may be affected if there is clot where the veins join to become one in the pelvis.

A cough, including coughing up blood, chest pain or shortness of breath may indicate a PE. Any of the above symptoms should have you seeking urgent medical advice.

Diagnosis of a DVT is based on physical examination and suspecting the condition. As the clot degrades it releases breakdown products, these give a raised reading when tested for in the blood.

An ultrasound scan of the legs will show blood flow in the limbs, with a clot showing up as a blockage. Treatment is with a blood thinner. Previously only warfarin was available, but a relatively new group of drugs called NOACs may also be used.

Although awareness of the condition is important, the actual risks of a DVT are low for those with few or none of the risk factors.

If you do undertake long journeys, simple precautions can help. Try to move about, or if on the road, have a break every few hours.

Even just moving your legs stimulates blood flow. Stick to water and avoid alcohol and caffeine as these can both dehydrate you.

Compression stockings may be beneficial, especially for those with risk factors. Taking an aspirin is not recommended, so unless you are prescribed it for another reason, it is better avoided.

Early Signs Of Heart Disease Appear In Eyes: Study Reveals

Certain observable changes in the eyes can provide valuable insights into potential underlying heart disease. By comprehending these eye conditions and their association with cardiovascular problems, we can enhance awareness and encourage prompt medical attention.

This newfound understanding highlights the importance of recognizing the eyes as potential indicators of heart disease, ultimately paving the way for early intervention and improved heart health outcomes. Here, we delve into the intriguing relationship between the eyes and heart health.

Retinal Artery Occlusion:

One eye condition that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease is retinal artery occlusion. This occurs when the blood vessels supplying the retina become blocked, leading to a sudden loss of vision. A clot or embolism causing this blockage in the retinal arteries may suggest a similar occurrence in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. Recognizing retinal artery occlusion as a potential red flag can facilitate the identification of cardiovascular issues.

Retinal Vein Occlusion:

Similar to retinal artery occlusion, retinal vein occlusion can be indicative of an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease. A blockage in the retinal veins can occur due to blood clotting disorders or atherosclerosis, both of which can impact the heart's blood supply. Detecting retinal vein occlusion prompts a deeper evaluation to assess the overall cardiovascular health of the individual.

Corneal Arcus:

Corneal arcus is a condition characterized by the formation of a greyish-white ring around the cornea. This ring may seem inconspicuous, but it can serve as a visual cue for elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Such lipid abnormalities are significant risk factors for heart disease. Recognizing corneal arcus can prompt individuals to assess their lipid profiles and take appropriate measures to protect their heart health.

Xanthelasma:

Xanthelasma refers to the appearance of yellowish plaques or deposits around the eyelids. These deposits are composed of cholesterol and are often associated with increased cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Xanthelasma can serve as a visual sign of potential lipid abnormalities and may indicate an elevated risk of heart disease. Identifying xanthelasma can prompt individuals to seek medical advice to evaluate their cardiovascular health.

Hypertensive Retinopathy:

High blood pressure, or hypertension, poses a significant risk to heart health. It also affects the small blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the retina. Hypertensive retinopathy, characterized by changes in the retinal blood vessels, can be indicative of long-standing, uncontrolled hypertension. Identifying hypertensive retinopathy can signal the need for effective blood pressure management to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Understanding the connection between eye health and heart disease enables us to view the eyes as a window into our overall well-being. This newfound knowledge supports early detection and intervention, ultimately contributing to improved heart health outcomes. By acknowledging the importance of eye health in relation to heart disease, we can strive towards a healthier future for individuals worldwide.

Early Signs Of Heart Disease Appear In The Eyes: Know The Link Between Eye Conditions And Cardiovascular Health

By Dr Padma Preetha N

Heart disease continues to be a significant global health concern, demanding timely detection and intervention. While the eyes may appear to be unrelated to heart health, recent research has unveiled an intriguing link between the two. Certain observable changes in the eyes can provide valuable insights into potential underlying heart disease. By comprehending these eye conditions and their association with cardiovascular problems, we can enhance awareness and encourage prompt medical attention. This newfound understanding highlights the importance of recognizing the eyes as potential indicators of heart disease, ultimately paving the way for early intervention and improved heart health outcomes. Here, we delve into the intriguing relationship between the eyes and heart health.

Retinal Artery Occlusion:

Retinal Vein Occlusion:

Corneal Arcus:

Xanthelasma:

Hypertensive Retinopathy:

While the eyes and heart may initially appear unrelated, emerging evidence demonstrates that certain eye conditions can serve as valuable indicators of an individual's cardiovascular health. The presence of retinal artery occlusion, retinal vein occlusion, corneal arcus, xanthelasma, and hypertensive retinopathy can provide important insights into potential underlying heart disease. By recognizing these eye conditions as potential early signs, individuals are encouraged to seek appropriate medical attention and undergo further evaluation to mitigate cardiovascular risks. Understanding the connection between eye health and heart disease enables us to view the eyes as a window into our overall well-being. This newfound knowledge supports early detection and intervention, ultimately contributing to improved heart health outcomes. By acknowledging the importance of eye health in relation to heart disease, we can strive towards a healthier future for individuals worldwide.

The author is Vitreo Retinal Surgeon, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chennai.

[Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP News Network Pvt Ltd.]

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