Let's talk about blood clots

[naturegirl 320]

I've heard that some people get them in their legs, while others do not. Are they something that you can see or only feel? I'd like to be as knowledgeable as possible about this, do that I can be proactive if needed. BTW, my surgery date was the 21st. Thanks!

[ShannonSinTx 31]

They usually occur in the lower legs accompanied by swelling, redness, and tenderness.

[Qbanma81 29]

Make sure you walk around the house as much as you can. When I'm laying down I move my legs as much as possible.

[naturegirl 320]

I've been walking circles in my living room and wiggling my legs while siting. Just concerned that I might not be doing enough.

[jjp 32]

My PCP and WLS sent me to a cardiologist for a venous ultra-sound on my lower legs pre-op. And post-op during in hospital recovery I received two shots (a fine gauge needle to the abdomen) to mitigate the risk of blood clots traveling. And it's another good reason to get up and WALK around the hospital floor as much as you can as SOON as your Nurse(s) tell you it's okay.

[Inner Surfer Girl 12,015]

According to my surgeon, the two biggest risks from the surgery are blood clots and pneumonia so there is reason to be concerned. They should have given you lots of instructions on how to avoid both.

Walking is number one.

Also, you were given blood thinners in the hospital and were probably sent home with either blood thinner shots or pills. I was also given leg compressors to use at home.

My instructions for coming home from the hospital was to get out and walk every thirty minutes (I live over 45 minutes away from the hospital).

The best thing you can do is walk.

[Half of Bri 115]

I'm pre-op but I have had blood clots in my leg that traveled to both my lungs. You can't ALWAYS feel them, but in my case it felt like a pulled muscle in my calf, was tender to the touch, and after a few days when I started losing feeling in my leg/foot I went to the doctor. Also if you find that you're short of breath, extremely fatigued or dizzy, it's better safe than sorry. It does sound to me that the surgeon took the proper precautions with giving you the shot (which works right away) and would definitely help prevent them. But, if you are worried for any reason, always always ALWAYS get checked out!