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Good afternoon:
Do you spend your day, in front of a computer while sitting at your desk? When you travel for business (or pleasure), do you fritter away an hour or two while loitering at the gate, waiting for your late-arriving plane and then spend the next few hours in cramped, seated captivity on the aircraft? We won't ask for a show of hands, we already know your answers - probably because we're guilty of the same bad health behaviors. If you want to enjoy this summer and many summers after that, you need to move to improve - your health, even your life is at risk.
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot (thrombus) in a deep vein, usually in the legs, and usually occur in the lower leg or thigh. They also can occur in other parts of the body. If the blood clot breaks off, it could travel to the lungs, shutting off the blood supply (pulmonary embolism). Pulmonary Embolism is a very serious condition which can damage lungs, other organs and even lead to death.
What causes DVT? Surgery, hospitalization, immobilization (such as when orthopedic casts are used, or during long flights, leading to traveller's thrombosis), smoking, obesity, age, certain drugs (such as estrogen, or erythropoietin) and genetic tendencies to form clots, a condition known as thrombophilia - all of the above may increase the risk for developing DVT, including sitting for hours at one's desk.
If you want to know more about DVT, visit our InternetIntel section for links to sites with information about the causes, symptoms and treatment for DVT, and, of course, if you have any concerns, consult your physician without delay.
How do you avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis? Get up, take a walk, stretch - just don't stay immobile for long periods of time. The American Health Association estimates that one in1000 Americans will develop DVT each year - you don't want to be in this club. DVT, also known as the "economy class syndrome" since it often strikes travelers who stay seated during long flights, can affect anyone who is at risk for clotting. Couch potatoes, desk jockeys and frequent flyers beware - DVT is often asymptomatic. Stand up, walk around, take a run and maybe save your life.
If you can't leave your desk as often as you'd like, consider yoga at your desk. "12 Ways To Secretly Practice Yoga At Work," is an how-to manual for sneaking asanas (yoga poses) at the office. InternetIntel has the link to the Healthy Living blog.
Ken works out daily, boxing, running, weight-lifting - a great advocate for physical fitness - who found "The Beginner's Guide to Running for Weight Loss." This article spells out the benefits and provides six easy steps to start your running regimen. If you want a copy of the article, we will be happy to fax or email the .pdf document to you (it's six pages, but an easy and informative read).
Would you like some good news about the new healthcare law? Take a look at our BulletinBoard.
We hope that if you don't already have a fitness routine, you'll get a good workout and enjoy healthier living starting this month.
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