The elastic bandage is vital after a stroke

Squeezing the legs of a man who suffered a stroke, can save his life, according to researchers. This reduces the risk of extremely dangerous condition called deep vein thrombosis, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism and death.

deep venous thrombosis

Until recently, medicine was no medication that would reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis Except for blood-thinning drugs from the group of anticoagulants. However, taking them dangerous for stroke victims, as it can lead to bleeding in the brain. Now scientists at the University of Edinburgh found that the prevention of a dangerous disorder cope admirably conventional compression leg. Thus, patients after strokes, which are particularly at risk of becoming a victim of thrombosis and lose their lives because of this, should be encouraged to wear bandages on his feet.

Their low cost and wide availability makes this method of preventing   deep venous thrombosis   affordable for the general population. Studies have shown that elastic bandages stimulates blood flow in the legs, preventing the blood to stagnate and form clots. Venous thrombosis may lead to pulmonary embolism, blocking blood vessels in the lungs, causing severe heart failure. Thousands of Russians die each year because of such complications.

Scottish scientists tested the effectiveness of elastic bandages on 2,800 stroke patients in hundreds of hospitals across the UK. Observations have shown that wearing the bandages in the first days after stroke significantly reduced the risk of death. (READ MORE)

Treatment and prevention

Go back to the main page