FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Thrombophilia is a condition that causes an increased risk of blood clots. Blood clots can cause various health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and pulmonary embolism. The condition is characterized by an increased level of clotting factors in the blood, which make it more likely for a blood clot to form. A blood clot can block blood flow to the heart, brain, or lungs. This can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. Patients affected by thrombophilia are often prescribed blood thinners to reduce their risk of developing a blood clot.
Common Causes of Thrombophilia
1. Family History
Thrombophilia can be inherited from a parent. If you have a family member with thrombophilia, you may be at increased risk for the condition. The risk is even higher if more than one family member has thrombophilia.
2. Pregnancy
The condition develops when the placenta produces too many clotting factors. This can lead to an increased risk of blood clots during pregnancy. Women with thrombophilia are often prescribed blood thinners during pregnancy to reduce their risk of developing a blood clot. Pregnancy can also cause a temporary increase in the levels of clotting factors. This is known as acquired thrombophilia. Acquired thrombophilia usually goes away after pregnancy. Thrombophilia is also more common in women who have had multiple pregnancies.
3. Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a condition that causes the body to produce antibodies against phospholipids. Phospholipids are molecules that help keep the blood from clotting. Antibodies against phospholipids can make it more likely for a blood clot to form. It is caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. The condition is more common in women than in men.
4. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Disseminated intravascular coagulation causes the body to form too many blood clots. It can be caused by several conditions, including cancer, sepsis, and trauma. Coagulation is a normal process that helps to stop bleeding. However, the body forms too many blood clots in disseminated intravascular coagulation. This can lead to serious health problems, including stroke and organ failure. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.
5. Medical Illnesses
Certain medical illnesses and conditions can increase your risk of thrombophilia. These include hepatitis, cancer, heart disease, HIV, obesity, and liver disease. Thrombophilia is also more common in people who have had surgery or have been bedridden for an extended period. This is because these activities can cause the blood to pool and clot.
Treatment Options for Thrombophilia
The best option to treat thrombophilia depends on the condition’s underlying cause. The goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of developing a blood clot. This can be done by taking blood thinners or by making lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing a blood clot include exercising, eating a healthy diet, and quitting smoking. People with thrombophilia should also avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
Schedule An Appointment
For more information about thrombophilia and how it may affect pregnancy, fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment. You can also call Dr. Alex Tepper, MD, FACOG, at 212-828-0900. Dr. Tepper has over 20 years of experience in obstetrics and genecology and is a leading expert on thrombophilia. He will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that is right for you.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Whether you are a new or returning patient, Dr. Tepper can assess your concerns and discuss your options to find the most comfortable and convenient care for you. To get started, call our office to set up an appointment.
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT