The Haematology Department of Alimosho General Hospital in Lagos State, on Thursday, sensitised residents to the need to reduce the risk of thrombosis formation by the avoidance of a sedentary lifestyle among other precautions.
The Head, Department of Haematology, Dr Adebukola Orolu, made this call during an event held with consultants and nursing officers of the hospital to commemorate the 2022 World Thrombosis Day, in Alimosho.
She said, “The theme for this year’s edition of the Day, ‘Eyes open to thrombosis,’ was chosen to reawaken the consciousness of the populace to the importance of thrombosis and the effect of not paying cursory attention to this medical condition. Its symptoms include leg swelling, pain and redness symptoms of pulmonary embolism, such as unexplained shortness of breath and chest pain.
“Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in the blood vessel; and when blood clot forms in the deep veins of the legs or arms, is called deep vein thrombosis and if the clot dislodges can travel to the lungs, it causes life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.
“I will advocate healthy weight, the avoidance of sedentary lifestyle, possible short stay in bed after surgery, leg exercising every one to two hours, as some of the various ways to reduce risk of thrombosis formation. It accounts for one in four people’s death worldwide, and should be of concern to everyone.”