Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/351029
DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a major vein deep in your thighs or legs. Unlike clots that form in veins near the surface— such as varicose veins—DVT can break free and travel up the deep vein into your lung. DVT that lodges in your lung artery is called a pulmonary embolism. THE OTHER SILENT KILLER Most people are aware of the dangers of heart attack and stroke, but far fewer know about DVT and pulmonary embolism. Every year, up to 600,000 Americans develop DVT or pulmonary embolism. Left untreated, one in three people with a pulmonary embolism will die—most within the first few hours of a DVT settling in the lung artery. "Learn to recognize the symptoms of DVT," says Don Brown, RN, clinical lead for the Cardiac and Vascular Interventional Suite (CVIS) at Kishwaukee Hospital. "Swelling or warmth in your calf could be a sign of a clot in your leg. Shortness of breath may indicate a clot has broken free and traveled to your lungs." If you experience these symptoms, contact your physician right away or seek emergency treatment. "When you travel by car or plane for an extended period, getting up and moving around can help prevent clots from forming." Brown adds. PULMONARY EMBOLISM AND DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS CAN BE TREATED IN THE CARDIAC AND VASCULAR INTERVENTIONAL SUITE AT KISHWAUKEE HOSPITAL. MEDICATION TO BREAK UP THE CLOTS IS INFUSED INTO THE BLOODSTREAM THROUGH A CATHETER INSERTED IN THE GROIN. A PATIENT TYPICALLY REMAINS HOSPITALIZED FOR TWO TO FOUR DAYS FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURE. IF YOU HAVE A DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS, TIME MAY NOT BE ON YOUR SIDE. Clot A Ticking KISHPROGRAMS.ORG Courage to Quit ® Individual Sessions KishHealth System is proud to offer this 6-week, one-on-one program developed by the Respiratory Health Association. A certified wellness instructor provides support, skills, and information about addiction, withdrawal, medications, triggers, and the health benefits of being smoke-free. Call to set up your appointments. $25/Person - Refundable if all sessions attended KISHWAUKEE HOSPITAL – 815.748.8962 VALLEY WEST HOSPITAL - 815.786.3962 As you look through this magazine, you will find listings of classes and other events. Some are selected to coordinate with the content on the page. Additional listings are grouped by category on pages 8 and 9. Most classes are free and require registration. Classes with low enrollment are generally cancelled three days prior to the start date. Please register early. Register online at kishprograms.org. KishHealth System Cancer Center provides patients and families with education, support and resources to deal with the many challenges presented by cancer. Generous donor support helps underwrite the cost of these programs. If you are interested in making a donation to improve the quality of life for those dealing with cancer, please contact the Health Foundation at 815.748.9954 or visit kishhealthfoundation.org. YOUR GUIDE TO CLASSES AND PROGRAMS 2