Vascular PRN

Garry Shandling's Death Caused by Blood Clot

 

Tampa, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/01/2017 -- At least one high-profile celebrity death in 2016 was caused by a blood clot.

A Los Angeles County medical examiner's report, recently made public, says that Garry Shandling's March, 2016 death was caused by pulmonary thrombosis — a blood clot that became lodged in his lungs.

The comedian's death, while tragic, might nevertheless serve to educate people on the dangers of blood clots, says Greg Grambor. He is president of Vascular PRN, a leading national distributor of pneumatic compression therapy equipment.

"Reports say Shandling complained of shortness of breath and leg pain the day before his death," Grambor said. "These are classic warning signs of pulmonary thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. It's sad to say, but if he had recognized those signs and gone to a hospital, he would very likely be alive today."

The medical examiner's report stated that blood clots had formed in Shandling's legs, a condition called deep vein thrombosis. It also said that he had not been feeling well during an earlier trip to Hawaii. Long plane rides are a common risk factor for deep vein thrombosis.

People most at risk of a blood clot, include the elderly, those who fly frequently and those with a family history of blood clots. Grambor suggests that those who are at risk speak with their doctors about preventing thrombosis and embolisms.

"Doctor-prescribed pneumatic compression therapy can be performed in-home at the patient's convenience, or even during car trips and flights with portable devices," Grambor said. "It's a very affordable and non-invasive form of therapy."