DNA Direct: Your Genes in Context

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Testing for Genetic Disorders

Related Genetic Tests

Blood Clotting Disorders

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BLOOD CLOTTING DISORDERS

Preventing Venous Thrombosis (Blood Clots)

Some risk factors for venous thrombosis – like genetic risk and age – cannot be changed. But other risk factors – like triggering events and lifestyle factors – can be reduced.

You may be able to decrease your risk of developing a blood clot or related condition; in some cases, easily. In other cases, it may take a little more effort.

Knowing Your Genetic Risk
Triggering Events
Lifestyle
Medical Intervention

Knowing Your Genetic Risk

For many people, knowing that they have an increased risk based on their genes motivates them to change their other risk factors.

Screening for some types of thrombophilia, such as factor V Leiden, is done by DNA tests. Other types of thrombophilia, such as deficiencies in certain blood proteins, are detected through blood tests. It is possible, although rare, to have more than one type of thrombophilia.

Triggering Events

Prolonged immobility is one of the most significant risks to avoid. Whether a person is hospitalized, confined to bed rest, or travels long distances in a plane or car, it is important to do exercises to maintain a healthy blood flow.

Having surgery adds an additional element of risk – having a blood clot related to a venous catheter – that needs to be addressed with a medical staff. Medical professionals can help make decisions about whether blood thinners are necessary and if so, how much and for how long.

Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy body weight and engaging in regular, moderate exercise are critical to preventing venous thrombosis. In addition, not smoking contributes to a healthy circulatory system.

Medical Intervention

Currently, there is no medical treatment that can completely prevent a venous thrombosis. Blood thinners are the only formal treatment available, but they are not prescribed to everyone – even to people with an inherited thrombophilia.

Blood thinners (also known as anticoagulants) carry other serious health risks that must be weighed along with the benefits of preventing a blood clot. This is a topic that requires discussion with a primary care physician or an expert in blood disorders.