Thrombosis refers to abnormal, life-threatening blood clots that form in the artery or vein. A clot in the vein (usually in the leg or pelvis) is known as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While a clot that breaks off and travels to the lungs is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). Together, DVT and PE make up venous thromboembolism (VTE). An underestimated figure of approximately 6,000 cases of blood clots is recorded by the HSE each year in Ireland but this excludes people treated as out-patients i.e. not admitted; people who do not make it to the hospital (death out of hospital); maternity admissions; blood clots in children; and fatal admissions. This figure of 6,000 is nowhere near accurate. 50% of these cases are potentially preventable, reducing the risk of death and disability for thousands of people. Blood clots can be very serious, but, there are preventative measures that can be taken. There are also effective treatments to deal with them if diagnosed quickly.
Blood clots do not discriminate between men & women, young or old. They can strike anyone at any age. Here are some shocking facts about thrombosis:
Blood clots rarely happen for one reason, therefore, in order to ascertain who is at risk and which Patient needs preventative measures, Health Care Professionals must do a VTE risk assessment on all patients who attend our hospital’s. Nothing less is acceptable. A simple questionnaire could be the difference between life and death. If you are going in to hospital, ask for a VTE Risk Assessment.
You or your doctor cannot know the level of your risk if you are not risk assessed.
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