• Life after thrombosis
• Relaxation
• Sleep
• Post-thrombotic Panic Syndrome
• Support

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Life after thrombosis

Experiencing thrombosis is traumatic and people often need help to cope with the emotional impact. Some people who have experienced thrombosis later experience moments of panic, anxiety, or depression relating to this condition. Often this anxiety occurs when experiencing symptoms like those that happened at the time of the original thrombosis. This is known as post-thrombotic panic syndrome and is very common.

The adjustment to life after thrombosis can be traumatic and life can change dramatically after diagnosis. Thrombosis often occurs suddenly and without warning – adding to the emotional impact of this condition. It is a completely natural reaction to be worried or anxious after experiencing thrombosis and it is completely okay. Everyone deals with this condition differently and it is important to acknowledge and recognise that these feelings and emotions are part of the process of healing.

                                 

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Relaxation

Worry and stress can negatively affect your mental health and wellbeing and is unhelpful in recovering and leading a fulfilling life. Mindfulness, meditation, guided relaxation, and breathing techniques can all assist you in managing stress and maintaining a healthy outlook. A leaflet on general relaxation techniques can be found here. Many valuable meditation smartphone apps and YouTube videos are available online.

                           

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The importance of sleep

Making sure you get enough good sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing but stress and over-worrying can impact the amount and quality of sleep that you get. Poor sleep can reduce your concentration and memory, and worsen your mood. Below are a few tips to make sure that you receive a good night's sleep.

Tips for improving your quality of sleep:

• Try meditation or mindfulness and breathing exercises to relax and calm yourself.
• Try to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours before you sleep.
• Do something relaxing before bed
• Exercise during the day
• Establish a routine
• If you cannot fall asleep or find yourself awake at night you should leave the bed and do something relaxing until you feel drowsy, then return to bed and try again.

                                      

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Post-Thrombotic Panic Syndrome

People who have had a thrombotic event may experience acute anxiety or panic when reminded of or experiencing similar sensations to their thrombotic event. 

Being aware of and knowing how to deal with anxiety as it arises is important for managing your recovery after experiencing thrombosis.

1. Be aware of situations that make you anxious. Being prepared and ready to deal with feelings of anxiety are the first step.
2. If you start to feel anxious or fear that you are experiencing a blood clot, try to perform some relaxation or breathing exercises to calm yourself.
3. If the symptoms continue after you have calmed yourself then consider seeking medical help.

                                 

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Learn more about dealing with thrombosis.

            

Download a leaflet version of this page. 

                                

Learn more about thrombosis risk factors.

                  

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