Blood clots are a very serious condition. They can cause significant damage to your brain, heart and lungs. Death and long-term complications may result from untreated blood clots. The latest updates on Covid-19 indicate that the virus may cause severe inflammation which can trigger blood clots.
This is compounded in seniors because lack of mobility is an increased risk factor for blood clotting. Anyone, regardless of age, who is hospitalized for Covid-19 routinely receive blood tests to gauge the activity of their clotting system. They may then receive compression socks or small injections of blood thinners to attempt to prevent clotting.
Once patients leave the hospital, there is still follow up protocols to ensure they do not trigger blood clots. The time frame for how long they need to be monitored is still being researched.
Blood clots resulting from the Covid-19 vaccine have been extremely rare. The issue arises much more frequently from having the virus itself. To monitor for signs of blood clotting, look for the following symptoms:
- Facial drooping;
- Difficulty speaking; or
- Weakness in one arm or leg; swelling or tenderness in one arm or leg.
Try to keep moving and stay hydrated. Some major risk factors for blood clots in seniors include:
- Recent major surgery;
- Cancer treatment;
- Obesity (and lack of mobility); or
- Covid-19.
The most reliable method to diagnose blood clots is an ultrasound exam. A specific blood test to measure clotting activity is also available. If a clot is discovered, the patient will be treated with anticoagulants, commonly called blood thinners. These drugs decrease the blood’s ability to clot. They stop clots from getting bigger, prevent new clots from forming and prevent existing clots from breaking off and traveling to the lungs. These blood thinners come in pill form or can given by injection or IV.
If caring for a senior, especially one suffering from some of the risk factors mentioned above, it is important to note that clotting issues occur more frequently with age. When blood clots develop in certain places in the body that restrict the blood flow to major organs, it can become immediately life-threatening.
At Stouffer Legal we care about our seniors and strive to educate caregivers on ways to improve the lives of the elderly as well as offer education on preventative healthcare that can save and prolong the lives of loved ones. For more information on elder law issues such as long-term care planning and comprehensive estate planning, contact us in the Greater Baltimore area for a consultation. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (443) 470-3599, emailing us at office@stoufferlegal.com, or register for an upcoming free webinar using the link below:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3433885182557595916
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1391645688056486412
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1826000060028014604
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/704931407278037516
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7942535966346120972
