Lifestyle and home remedies

If you have essential thrombocythemia, your doctor may recommend that you regularly take low-dose aspirin. Aspirin makes platelets less sticky and your blood less likely to form clots. If you're also pregnant, aspirin has a low risk of causing side effects to the fetus.

Also try to choose healthy lifestyle habits to lower your risk of developing conditions that may contribute to blood clotting. These include diabetes, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol. Take steps to:

• Eat healthy foods. Choose a varied diet rich in whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and low in saturated fats. Try to avoid trans fats. Learn about portion control to maintain a normal weight.
• Increase your physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day. Take a brisk daily walk, ride your bike or swim laps.
• Stop smoking. Smoking increases your risk of blood clots. If you smoke, take steps to stop.