Can anemia cause blood clots in legs

DVT typically occurs in the legs and can cause pain and swelling and can be fatal if a blood clot dislodges and travels into the lungs.

The new study found patients with low iron levels were at increased risk for blood clots but those who took iron supplements did not have a higher risk. The findings of this study are published in the journal Thorax.

Experts say the results suggest that treating an iron deficiency may help prevent DVT in the general population.

Everyone bleeds red, but some blood-related conditions affect more women than men. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Blood Clots
Sluggish blood flow and high estrogen levels can lead to these congealed globs that typically form in the arms or legs, causing swelling or pain. Worst-case scenario: a clot breaks free and travels to your lungs, where it can get lodged and become fatal.

Your move: Expectant and new moms (estrogen!) and women who are rooted in one spot for hours on end have heightened odds. If you're a desk jockey, take a 10-minute walk every two hours. Birth control users with added risk factors (smoking, a family history of clots): Ask your doc about progesterone-only forms.

Can anemia cause blood clots in legs

Anemia
Or, why women feel wiped out while on their periods. Losing iron-rich blood can starve the body of oxygen, causing fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. Untreated, long-term anemia can lead to a heart attack.

Your move: Get 18 milligrams of iron every day. That's roughly the amount in one cup of iron-fortified cereal, plus a half cup of lentils and one cup of spinach. Skip supplements unless prescribed by your M.D.

Bruising
Run-ins with ill-placed furniture can injure blood vessels, which spill their contents into nearby tissue. Thanks to our thinner skin (only physically!), women get black-and-blues more easily.

Your move: Arnica cream may speed healing (try Boiron Arnicare, $8, target.com). If marks regularly show up in spots you haven't banged up, call your M.D. to rule out a bleeding disorder.

Varicose Veins
When your veins are taxed by pregnancy, excess weight, or lots of prolonged inactivity, blood can pool, causing the bulging, purple lines that plague the legs of up to 55 percent of women.

Your move: Walking or jogging can head off the lumps by boosting circulation and strengthening your gams. Too late? Ask your physician about laser treatments or injections that can get rid of varicose veins.

Sources: Carolyn Jacob, M.D., director of Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology; Nancy Berliner, M.D., hematologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston; Andra James, M.D., M.P.H., consulting professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Duke University

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The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the type of chemotherapy and the amount given. Anticipating and managing side effects can help to minimize them and provide the best possible experience for the person receiving chemotherapy.

Anemia and chemotherapy

As each person’s individual medical profile and diagnosis is different, so is his or her reaction to treatment. Side effects may be severe, mild or absent. Be sure to discuss with your cancer care team any/all possible side effects of treatment before the treatment begins.

Red blood cells carry oxygen to other cells throughout your body. Chemotherapy can damage your body’s ability to make RBCs, so body tissues do not get enough oxygen, a condition called anemia. People who have anemia may feel short of breath, very weak or tired, dizzy, faint, or may feel that their hearts are beating very fast. Consult your physician or nurse practitioner immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

You will be given frequent tests to measure your hemoglobin and hematocrit during your therapy. If these measurements are low, you may be given a medication that can boost the growth of your red blood cells. If your blood is too low in red blood cells, you may need a blood transfusion or medication to raise the number of red blood cells in your body.

What can I do if I am anemic?

Consider the following strategies to help manage anemia and fatigue:

  • Plan time to rest during the day.
  • Take short naps or breaks.
  • Limit your activities to those that are most important.
  • Try easier or shorter versions of activities you enjoy.
  • Take short walks or do light exercise, if possible.
  • Consider activities such as meditation, prayer, yoga, guided imagery or visualization.
  • Eat as well as you can in small amounts at a time. Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Join a support group. Your physician can help you find a support group in your area.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol.
  • Ask for help with daily responsibilities.
  • Talk to your nurses regarding ways to conserve your energy and reduce fatigue.
  • Report any changes in energy level to your cancer care team.

Blood clots and bruising

The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the type of chemotherapy and the amount given. Anticipating and managing side effects can help to minimize them and provide the best possible experience for the person receiving chemotherapy.

Blood clots, bruising and chemotherapy

Platelets are the blood cells that help stop bleeding by clotting your blood. Chemotherapy can affect the bone marrow, where platelets are produced. If your blood has a platelet deficiency, you may bleed or bruise more easily than usual, even without an injury.

Bleeding is considered a potentially life-threatening side effect. Consult your physician or nurse practitioner right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Can you get blood clots if you are anemic?

People with low levels of iron in the blood have a higher risk of dangerous blood clots, according to research published in the journal Thorax today.

What type of anemia causes blood clots?

Iron deficiency is a well-known cause of anemia. However, it is an under-recognized cause of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Iron deficiency predisposes to VTE mainly by inducing thrombocytosis, which can lead to a hypercoagulable state.

What causes sudden blood clots in legs?

Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis Being sedentary due to bed rest or sitting too long without moving, such as during travel. Family history of blood clots. Having a long-term (indwelling) catheter, a tube in a blood vessel. Obesity.

What does anemia do to your legs?

Severe anemia may cause painful lower leg cramps during exercise, shortness of breath, and chest pain, especially if people already have impaired blood circulation in the legs or certain types of lung or heart disease.