Effects of long-term bed rest on the cardiovascular system

Long-term bed rest affects the cardiovascular system by reducing blood volume and impairing vascular function, leading to orthostatic hypotension and deep vein thrombosis.

1. Reduced Blood Volume

Long-term bed rest can cause a progressive reduction in blood volume, with decreased plasma volume resulting in increased blood viscosity. Under medical guidance, blood volume is typically restored through intravenous administration of crystalloid solutions, colloid solutions, or blood products.

2. Impaired Vascular Function Leading to Orthostatic Hypotension

After prolonged bed rest, the nervous and vascular systems may lose or have diminished reflex regulation capacity, resulting in orthostatic (postural) hypotension. Clinical manifestations include pallor, sweating, dizziness, increased heart rate, and reduced pulse pressure. In severe cases, syncope (fainting) may occur. For patients who have been bedridden for extended periods, movements when standing should be performed slowly, with gradual postural transitions—from lying to sitting, then from sitting to standing—to prevent orthostatic hypotension.

3. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Long-term bed rest increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, with incidence rates directly proportional to the duration of immobilization. In the early stages of illness, if the diagnosis is confirmed and the patient has no contraindications to thrombolytic or anticoagulant therapy, pharmacological treatments such as thrombolysis or anticoagulation may be used. Examples include urokinase, streptokinase, and low-molecular-weight heparin. During treatment, therapeutic response should be closely monitored, and medication dosages adjusted promptly under physician supervision.

In addition, long-term bed rest may lead to increased heart rate and impaired cardiac function. Patients should be encouraged to actively participate in daily activities as much as possible, which helps promote venous blood return.