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Lung Cancer Patients Face Higher Blood Clot Risk

Lung cancer patients need to be aware of their heightened risk of blood clots. Recognizing symptoms promptly can prevent life-threatening complications.

This image is an edited image. On the left side of the image there is a skull. In the middle of the...
This image is an edited image. On the left side of the image there is a skull. In the middle of the image there is smoke. At the right bottom of the image there is a text in the image.

Lung Cancer Patients Face Higher Blood Clot Risk

Lung cancer patients face a higher risk of developing blood clots, which can lead to serious complications like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Recognizing symptoms promptly is crucial for timely medical intervention.

People with lung cancer are up to seven times more likely to develop blood clots than those without, with cancer responsible for around 20% of such cases. Certain lung cancer types and stages, along with treatments like chemotherapy and surgery, further increase this risk. Symptoms may include leg swelling, warmth, or pain, chest pain, rapid heart rate, sudden shortness of breath, and coughing up blood. Practical measures to reduce risk include regular movement, avoiding prolonged sitting, using compression stockings, and in some cases, blood-thinning medications. Factors elevating risk include cancer type and stage, treatments, limited physical activity, and tobacco use. Cancer cells damaging healthy tissues trigger a natural repair process involving clot formation, increasing the risk of blood clots.

Lung cancer patients must be aware of the heightened risk of blood clots and their symptoms. Prompt recognition and medical attention are vital to prevent serious complications like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal if left untreated. Regular movement, avoiding prolonged sitting, and other preventive measures can help reduce this risk.

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