Blood clot risk after brain injury
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, may occur after a brain injury because of decreased blood flow and movement in the legs. This becomes less common after a person has begun to get out of bed and is exercising.
Symptoms
- Swelling, with one arm or one leg bigger than the other
- Redness, pain, and hot or warm areas in the legs
- Lumpy or hard spot over or near a vein
- Low fever (99.F – 101.F) with no other signs of infection
Prevention
- Do range of motion exercises every day.
- Stay as active as possible.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
- Cut down or stop smoking in order to improve circulation.
- Do not strain during a bowel movement.
- Check the legs for signs of DVT every morning before getting out of bed.
- Do not wear tight garters, girdles, tight jeans, socks, or knee-high boots.
- Wear TED hose if they have been ordered by your doctor.
Treatment
- If you think a DVT is present, call the doctor on an urgent basis.
- Stay in bed and keep the leg straight.
- Do not rub the area or exercise it.
- Do not put pillows under the knee area.
- Remove tight shoes and clothing.