Antiphospholipid syndrome

Antiphospholipid syndrome puts patients at a much higher risk of developing blood clots in both arteries and veins, which can cause severe disability and even death. Patients should be warned of the signs and symptoms of venous and arterial thrombosis so that they can seek evaluation early if they have recurrent events. Given this increased risk, it is important to minimize any other risk factors for blood clots. Patients should therefore:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Exercise regularly

• Lose weight if they are overweight

• Stop smoking

• Eat a low-fat/low-cholesterol diet

• Keep blood sugar under good control

• Check cholesterol and use statin medications if appropriate

• Monitor blood pressure and initiate medications (antihypertensives) if appropriate

• Avoid medications (such as estrogen) that may increase risk of blood clots

• Use thromboprophylaxis at times of high risk when full dose anticoagulation cannot be continued, such as a surgical procedure

• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots, which may include swelling, pain in a limb, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or weakness

• Be advised to seek urgent medical attention

Useful online resources include the following: APS Foundation of America, Inc Opens in new window APS Support UK Opens in new window