FAQs

Yes. In an automobile, stop every hour or so and walk for several minutes. On a plane, try to sit where you can stretch your legs (aisle seat, exit aisle, bulkhead seats, business class, etc.). Periodically, get up and walk the aisle(s) for several minutes. It is also a good idea to wear compression stockings when traveling.

This is something you absolutely need to discuss with your doctor. This has to do with numerous factors including how severe the event was and how much anxiety you are having.  If you are feeling better, you can return to work when you feel comfortable.

You can lower your risk of a blood clot by making a few lifestyle changes. These include giving up smoking, increasing exercise, and losing weight if you're overweight, aiming for body mass index <30. When it comes to exercise, you don’t have to resort to extreme workouts—regular, gentle physical activity like walking is a great way to promote good circulation. If you are recently diagnosed, discuss with your physician whether physical activity is appropriate for you, how much activity is recommended, and how soon you can begin. Physically, do only what is comfortable. You will not speed up recovery by pushing yourself aggressively through symptoms of pain and swelling. But you also will not make things worse by being active.

Yes, athletes can make a full recovery with DVT, PE and lung infarction. Infarction shouldn’t cause reduction in lung function. Most athletes (if they don’t get CTEPH) can make a full recovery. If you are returning to a contact sport and are on an anticoagulant– you may need to reassess your activities. For example, if you like to play basketball you should not drive to the basket or jockey for rebounds. Make sure to avoid trauma and falling at all costs. If you are an athlete seeking support, you can learn more about NBCA’s Sports and Wellness Institute and join our Team Stop The Clot® Facebook Support Group.

Exercise does not speed up clot dissolution. You can immediately resume exercise once pain and swelling improve. Mild to moderate activity after a DVT in the leg will not increase your risk of dislodging the clot to the lungs.

Moderate exercise such as walking or swimming is recommended. Returning to your normal exercise routine depends on your physical condition before the clot and the severity and location of your clots. Exercise increases circulation, reduces symptoms of venous insufficiency, and will make you feel invigorated. Aerobic exercise may increase lung function after a PE, although you don’t want to push through any pain.

It is essential, within the constraints of your physical condition. Exercise increases circulation, reduces symptoms of venous insufficiency, and will make you feel invigorated. Aerobic exercise may increase lung function after a PE.

Shortness of breath, fainting, or chest pains (particularly pains that worsen with coughing or change in position) are the three most worrisome signs. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism.

Swelling and pain. It often feels like a persistent "charley horse," or cramping in the calf. A sensation of fullness/pressure/swelling/tightness occurs, especially when going from sitting to standing. It is also described as an odd pulling sensation or tingling that doesn't go away. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of a blood clot. 

You want to make sure the asthma is well controlled. It can worsen after a PE. You should maximize your normal asthma regiment or take steroids that can help with the pain from pulmonary infarction.