Lehan Drugs
March is DVT Awareness Month, so once again we want to emphasize the importance of taking steps to prevent a blood clot, such as a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) a blood clot in a deep vein, which could lead to a pulmonary embolism (the lodging of a blood clot in the main artery of the lung). According to the National Blood Clot Alliance, between 350,000-600,000 venous blood clots occur every year in the U.S, and about one third of all blood clots are fatal.
In support of DVT Awareness Month, we’re offering our online followers some excellent sales on all compression socks (excluding insurance sales) through April 15th. Our certified fitters will make sure you find just the right style and size to meet your lifestyle needs (dressy/casual/athletic performance) and maximize your DVT prophylaxis. Mention “DVT Awareness Month” at the register and receive:
- 10% off one pair
- 15% off 2 pairs
- 20% off 3+ pairs
Serena Williams’ recent scare with a pulmonary embolism inadvertently brought attention to this dangerous condition and its ability to affect anyone, including athletes! In fact, athletes are often at a higher risk of developing a DVT because of their lower resting heart rates and slower blood flow rates, especially when they are traveling long distances. Williams’ ankle injury combined with immobilization in a walking boot and a long airline flight across the country most likely caused the DVT, resulting in a pulmonary embolism.
Warning signs of a DVT include swelling (usually of one leg), leg pain/tenderness, leg warm to touch, and/or reddish or bluish skin discoloration.
Warning signs of PE include sudden shortness of breath, sharp chest pain that may worsen with a deep breath, rapid heart rate, and/or unexplained cough, sometimes with bloody mucus.
To help prevent blood clots:
- When traveling or sitting/standing for long periods, wear compression socks, take breaks, and stretch your legs often
- Stay well hydrated
- Move around as soon as possible after surgery/illness/injury – compression socks will help in these times as well
- As always, exercise regularly, eat healthy, and don’t smoke
- Know the risk factors for blood clots and the signs and symptoms of DVTs and PEs
As we noted last year around this time, risk factors include:
- Major surgery
- Recent trauma (fall, broken bone)
- Family history of blood clots
- Sit or stand for long periods of time
- Overweight or obese
- Pregnancy
- Varicose veins
- Oral contraceptives
- Confined to a bed
It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor about DVT prophylactic measures, especially if you have a family history of blood clots, following major surgery, or if you exhibit any of the above risk factors and will be traveling long distances.
Please feel free to call us at 815-758-0911 or email info@lehandrugs.com if you have any questions at all! We are always more than happy to help.
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