If you work at an office and you do not stand up often enough, you may place yourself at risk of blood clots. However, if this happens, you likely wouldn't be able to make a strong workers' compensation case because you usually have the ability to stand up. However, if you are employed at a job where you are forced to sit for hours a day without moving, such as if you are a truck driver, you may have a workers' compensation case.
The Risk of Blood Clots
Blood clots are potentially a lethal condition. When a clot becomes dislodged, there is then a risk that it might reach your lungs, leading to pulmonary embolism. Blood clots can be triggered by blood flow slowing down more than normal. Sitting at a computer has become so associated with this problem that some experts have dubbed it "e-thrombosis." For this reason, if you have a job that involves you sitting at a computer for long periods, make sure to stand up regularly.
However, if you develop a blood clot because you were forced to sit for long periods of time, you should go to an emergency room to have your blood clot thinned out. If you suffer any damages as a result of the requirements of your job, you should consider making a workers' compensation claim.
Risk Factors
If you have one of several risk factors, you should especially avoid sitting for long periods of time. For example, if you have a history of clots or if you are over the age of 40, you are more at risk of developing a blood clot. As the human body ages, the blood vessels become less elastic. Blood starts to flow more slowly and is more likely to coagulate. If you exercise regularly, this keeps your blood vessels flexible and younger.
There are also various supplements that can reduce your risk of blood clots, including:
- Curcumin
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Quercetin
- Fish oils
But if you sit for a long period, you may still be at risk.
Seeking Compensation
Because sitting for a long period is sometimes not considered enough to make a workers' compensation claim, you may need to work closely with a workers' compensation attorney who will fight for your rights. While a workers' compensation attorney cannot guarantee results, they will discuss your case with you and provide you with advice. If necessary, they will represent you in court.
