Deep Vein Thrombosis
Home Treatment
Home treatment for deep vein thrombosis focuses on safety while taking anticoagulants because of the increased risk for bleeding.
Anticoagulant treatment for a first episode of deep vein thrombosis usually lasts for 3 to 6 months. While you are being treated with anticoagulants, you need to:
- Take your anticoagulants as directed.
- Monitor your response to the medications as your doctor recommends. This may require lab work once or twice each week at first and every 2 to 4 weeks later on.
- Avoid activities that pose a risk of serious injury.
- Manage your diet properly. Don't suddenly change your intake of foods that are rich in vitamin K. Vitamin K can interfere with the action of anticoagulants, making it more likely that your blood will clot. For more information, see:
- Consult your doctor before taking any other medications or discontinuing or changing the dose of any medication you are currently taking.
- If you drink alcohol, use it only in moderation.
For more information, see:
Elevating your leg or wearing compression stockings may also help reduce the pain and swelling that can occur with deep vein thrombosis.
Use a heating pad on the affected leg for 20 to 30 minutes 3 to 4 times daily. Your doctor may recommend that you take walks 5 or 6 times a day, if possible. These measures may help reduce the pain and swelling that can occur with deep vein thrombosis.
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| Author: | Merrill Hayden Nancy Reid | Last Updated: April 5, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Jeffrey S. Ginsberg, MD - Hematology | |
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