A Guide To Preventing And Treating Blood Clots At Home

Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco in all forms can increase the chance of developing a blood clot; this includes cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other sources of nicotine. Even e-cigarettes, nicotine patches, and nicotine gums can increase this risk. Nicotine heightens activity in the cells that contribute to clotting while slowing the movement of biochemicals in the blood that breaks down clots. Because of this, those who ingest nicotine are not just more likely to develop a blood clot; they are also more likely to encounter more significant clots that can be life-threatening. To aid in quitting tobacco, there are many medications available that can reduce cravings and increase chances of success, ultimately lowering one's risk of blood clots.