A blood clot can be concerning, whether in the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) or lung (pulmonary embolism, PE). Most patients remain worried about whether life can return to normal and whether a long, healthy future is possible after blood clotting.
Here's a brief discussion on life expectancy, long-term health, and lifestyle following a blood clot.
Several factors, like the following, determine the possibilities after a blood clot:
For example, a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolism) can be fatal if not treated immediately. However, with proper medical intervention, most individuals recover well and live normal lives. The Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI) is a physician tool that assesses risk and predicts outcomes based on individual health factors and the severity of the clot.
A major Canadian study discovered that patients with an unprovoked PE had a five-year mortality rate of 15%, and those with a provoked PE had a five-year mortality rate of 20%. These statistics support the need for continued medical supervision and risk control.
Notably, prompt treatment and compliance with your physician's advice can enhance your prognosis and enable you to live long and healthy after a blood clot.
Though most patients recover completely, one-third to one-half of all patients can have some long-term complications from a blood clot. These can involve:
Ongoing swelling, pain, and discolouration of the skin in the affected arm. In exceptional cases, ulcers in the skin may occur.
Around 2-4% of those who have suffered from pulmonary embolism can develop chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the lungs.
Your risk of developing another blood clot further increases after the first instance.
Anxiety and depression are common, as the experience can be traumatic, and the fear of recurrence may linger.
Despite these risks, with careful management and lifestyle adjustments, many people continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.
The risk of a recurrent blood clot depends on the initial cause. If your clot was triggered by a temporary factor (like surgery or trauma), your risk of recurrence is relatively low. However, if the clot occurred spontaneously or due to chronic conditions, there is a higher chance of developing another clot.
Major risk factors that contribute to recurring blood clots are as follows:
To reduce your risk of another clot, you can follow these tips:
Adopting healthy habits is essential for preventing future clots and improving overall well-being. Here are some of the lifestyle modifications that you should adopt:
These changes not only help prevent another clot but also support heart health, lower blood pressure, and improve quality of life.
Physical activity is the cornerstone of recovery and prevention. Even if you've never exercised regularly, starting with gentle activities like walking can make a big difference. Staying active helps prevent blood from pooling in your legs, which is a major risk factor for DVT.
Tips for staying active:
So, you can live a long and healthy life after experiencing a blood clot. The keys to longevity and quality of life include prompt and effective treatment, diligent follow-up care, lifestyle modifications, and awareness of your personal risk factors. While the risk of recurrence and long-term complications exists, many people thrive after a blood clot by staying informed, proactive, and engaged with their healthcare team.
Ensure that you adopt healthy habits, follow your doctor's advice, and make necessary adjustments to reduce your risk of another clot and enjoy a fulfilling life for years to come.
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