Having surgery, even one that is not serious, is something that requires aftercare. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider regarding the specific issues you might be faced with once you leave the hospital after surgery. They will let you know what to expect, what problem signs to watch out for, and any other important information pertaining to the healing process.
One of the biggest issues is embolism. Learn more about what an embolism is, what to watch out for, how to prevent them with your doctor’s instruction, and more tips.
What Exactly is an Embolism?
Having an idea of what an embolism is, as well as what symptoms to expect is important. An embolism is a blockage that happens in one of the arteries in the body. This is caused by a blood clot that broke off from somewhere else in the body. This clot travels through the bloodstream and then lodges itself in a small blood vessel anywhere in the body.
When this happens, it limits or even blocks off the blood flow to that area. Due to this, getting an embolism can be extremely dangerous and life-threatening. This is why it is important to protect yourself after surgery to reduce the risks of death because of an embolism.
What to Watch For with Embolisms
The symptoms of an embolism can vary from person to person, as we are all different. However, some main symptoms still remain true for everyone. If the embolism is found in the arms or legs, some common symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in the affected extremity
- Spasms or twitching
- Muscle weakness that does not get better
- Having cold, pale skin on just that extremity – though pale skin can be noted in the person all over
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention:
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing or moving
- Loss or changes in vision
- Fainting or lethargy
- Rapid breathing or heart rate
- Any changes with how you feel in a negative way after surgery
It is important to note that depending on the severity and the location, you may not experience any symptoms of having an embolism at all. This is why they can be very dangerous if you’re not careful.
If you’re getting plastic surgery in Monmouth County, then you know it is important to take the best care of yourself once the surgery is completed. The aftercare matters a lot during the most crucial time — the healing time.
Everyone can be affected with an embolism at any point, not just after surgery. There are other risk factors that make it more likely to have a blood clot happen.
How Your Doctor Helps Prevent Embolisms
Your doctor will likely counsel you on what to expect with embolisms or the risks you might have for developing one. Due to this, they’ve probably offered directions on how to prevent them. These directions generally include, but are not limited to:
- You may be prescribed an anticoagulant, which is a medication that is used to thin the blood and prevent clots from forming.
- Compression stockings that should be worn.
- Exercises or therapy moves to ensure that blood flow is not restricted, this includes special times to get out of the bed and move.
- Painkillers and sedatives may be prescribed to help relax you and provide more blood flow through the body during the healing process.
- Stretching and making sure to change positions, if you cannot walk, can also be helpful at reducing the chances of having an embolism.
Remember, your odds of getting a blood clot are higher up to three months after having surgery. While most people will notice a clot within 2 to 10 days after surgery, you are still at a higher risk after ten days.
You should keep moving whenever possible. The more blood flow you keep moving through your body, the better chances you will have at reducing your chances of having embolism happen. This is the best way you can keep on top of reducing the chances, while also taking the medications on time that were given to you by your healthcare provider.
If you’re ready to get the most out of your plastic surgery procedure, then make sure you’re prepared. Know what to expect before the procedure, during, and after during your healing time. This is a great way to gain knowledge, heal quicker and better, and actually enjoy the outcome of the changes that were made.
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