“Thrombosis does not discriminate. Clots can affect anyone regardless of location, age, ethnicity, or race. The most important thing is educating people on the signs and symptoms of a blood clot and when to contact your health care professional if needed.”
Suki Boparai, Anticoagulation Manager, at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust is raising awareness of a killer condition this World Thrombosis Day (October 13).
Did you know that one in four people die with Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) worldwide every year? It can be very dangerous and normally starts off with a blood clot in a vein, usually in the leg. People should seek medical help as soon as possible if they think they may have VTE.
World Thrombosis Day is marked annually to raise awareness of thrombosis and educate people on the signs and symptoms. Those who are more likely to develop the condition:
- Are over 60
- Are overweight
- Smoke
- Have a previous episode of VTE
- Take the contraceptive pill or HRT
- Have cancer or heart failure
Suki said: “It is important to raise awareness of VTE, including its causes, risk factors, signs and symptoms and evidence-based prevention and treatment to avoid these unnecessary deaths and disabilities caused by VTE.
“By focusing on VTE prevention, healthcare systems can save money, improve outcomes, and ultimately save lives.”
The signs of VTE are:
- Swelling or tenderness in legs
- Unexplained shortness of breath
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest/leg pain
Suki has more than 18 years’ experience of managing VTE and works closely with members of her team to provide care for patients with suspected and confirmed VTE.
Every month the team provides anticoagulation clinics throughout the borough of Walsall where patients are monitored whilst on treatment. This enables them to stay at home and reduces the number of patients needing hospitalisation.
Not only has Suki set up many clinics across the borough, but she was invited to the House of Commons in 2005 due to her excellent work and was given the opportunity to undertake The Thromboprophylaxis Course at Hertfordshire University. This course was set up by the Government to tackle VTE in hospitals, and upon completion she attended a parliamentary reception at the House of Commons.
Anyone who is worried they may have a blood clot should speak to their GP or seek medical help in an emergency. For further information, check out the World Thrombosis Day website.