Venous thromboembolism

Activities:

• Maintaining a healthy weight in relation to your height (BMI between 18.5 – 24.9) doing physical activity daily for 25 minutes or aerobic activities like swimming is suggested; Try not to remain in the same position/posture for long periods of time getting up and walking around for 10 minutes for every hour sitting.

Be sure to speak with your doctor about:

• your genetic risk before taking any estrogens (contraceptives); varicose veins in the legs; If having a major surgery tell your surgeon as they may want to use low-molecular-weight heparin as a prophylactic; during pregnancy, you might want to use precautions such as compression tights, etc. Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.

Moderate risk factors for VTE include:

• a family history of VTE, especially in immediate family members like parents and siblings
• sitting for a long time, especially with your legs crossed
• estrogen-based medications, like hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives
• chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• lack of physical activity
• smoking
• excessive, long-term alcohol consumption
• autoimmune conditions, like lupus and HIV

Diet:

• Reduce consumption of foods high in vitamin K (green leafy vegetables, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, chestnuts) but do not avoid altogether
• A low sodium diet (<2400 mg/day)
• Drink plenty of water (2 liters daily)
• Consume 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
• Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin is essential for building a strong immune system, healthy eyes, and skin. A potent antioxidant can help to prevent cardiovascular disease. Most vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of vitamin E. Some of the highest amounts of vitamin E are found in grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, and flaxseed oil. Vitamin E deficiencies are rare, some individuals might benefit from a higher intake of vitamin E for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE).