A specific amount of clotting within the blood is critical because it prevents extreme bleeding.

However, blood clots that don't naturally dissolve may be harmful.

This is as a result of they will journey across the physique, and stop blood stream to sure organs.

If a clot reaches the mind, for instance, it can lead to a stroke.

There can be the danger of a coronary heart assault or pulmonary embolism in case you have a clot.

It is frequent for blood clots to first kind in a deep vein inside a limb such because the arm or leg.

This is named deep vein thrombosis - or DVT.

Symptoms of DVT typically embrace throbbing ache in a single leg when strolling or standing up and swelling in a single leg.

According to the NHS it will possibly additionally trigger:

• Warm pores and skin across the painful space
• Red or darkened pores and skin across the painful space – this can be tougher to see on brown or black pores and skin
• Swollen veins which might be exhausting or sore whenever you contact them.

There are a large number of things that may result in a blood clot.

Some of those are past our management, like being genetically excessive threat for clotting.

However, some elements are brought on by life-style and subsequently there are steps we are able to take to minimise our threat.

The NHS lists three key methods to to do, that are:

• Maintaining a wholesome weight
• Staying energetic – taking common walks may also help
• Drinking loads of fluids to keep away from dehydration – DVT is extra seemingly in case you're dehydrated.

There are additionally some issues that needs to be prevented for a similar motive.

These are:

• Sitting nonetheless for lengthy durations of time – rise up and transfer round each hour or so
• Crossing your legs when you're sitting
• Smoking cigarettes
• Drinking a number of alcohol.

You are additionally extra prone to a blood clot in case you have spent a variety of time sitting or mendacity down as a consequence of a hospital keep, or as a consequence of a long-haul flight.

While in hospital you possibly can shield your self towards a DVT by:

• Staying energetic and strolling round in case you can
• Moving your toes (up and down) and ankles (in circles) if you need to keep in mattress – your healthcare crew might provide you with some workouts to do
• Wearing compression socks.

If you might be travelling for greater than three hours by automobile, aircraft or automobile it is best to:

• Wear free clothes
• Drink loads of water
• Avoid alcohol
• Walk round when doable.

Other elements that improve your threat of DVT are if you're over the age of 60, have had DVT earlier than, have varicose veins, have most cancers or coronary heart failure, or take the contraceptive capsule of HRT.

If you expertise indicators of a blood clot it is best to name 111.

If you expertise these coupled with breathlessness or chest ache it is best to name 999 or go to A&E.