Sitting at the Desk Could be Deadly

A new study from the Medical Research Institutesurgery. They are also used in people who have a
in Wellington examined 62 cases of DVT (Deephigh risk of developing blood clots, such as those
Vein Thrombosis) and found that 34% of themwho have had previous clots.
were office workers who had spent a long time•Exercising your lower leg muscles to
sitting at their desk. Although 34% may notimprove circulation in your legs. Point your toes up
sound like a very significant number, it is largertoward your head so that the calves of your legs
than the percentage of people who developedare stretched, then relax. Repeat. This exercise is
DVT on while on long flights.especially important to do when you are sitting
The office workers at greatest risk were thosefor long periods of time.
who spent 14 hours a day at their desk, spending•Getting up out of bed as soon as
3 to 4 at a time in their chair without standing up.possible after an illness or surgery. It is very
According to HealthDay, "DVT is the formation ofimportant to get moving as soon as you are able.
a blood clot in a deep vein -- most commonlyIf you cannot get out of bed, do the leg exercise
occurs in the legs. The clots can break free anddescribed above every hour to keep the blood
travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, heartmoving through your legs.
or brain and cause breathing problems, chest pain,•Using special stockings called
or even death from a stroke or heart attack.compression stockings to help prevent deep vein
The study found that the two most commonthrombosis if you are at an increased risk.
jobs to contract DVT are IT specialist and callFor more related articles or to subscribe to our
center receptionist.feed please visit this Consumer Advocacy
Healthwise suggests these steps to prevent DVT:website for more information on ordering from an
•Taking anticoagulants to prevent aonline no prescription pharmacy.
blood clot that can develop after some types of