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Zak Starkey’s Health Scare: Drummer Diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis
Rock drummer Zak Starkey, son of Beatles legend Ringo Starr, recently experienced a health scare, being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious condition involving a blood clot. The initial indication that something was amiss was a feeling of ‘muscle tightness’ in his right leg during band rehearsals for The Who. Starkey, who recently performed with The Who at the Royal Albert Hall for the Teenage Cancer Trust benefit concerts, initially dismissed the discomfort as a pulled muscle. However, the situation proved to be far more serious.
Initial Symptoms and Dismissal
“I’m always moving energetically and I didn’t feel any acute pain, just some stiffness in my leg – so I assumed it was just a strained muscle,” explained Starkey, 59, who has an extensive career drumming with notable bands including Oasis. He recounted thinking a night’s rest would resolve the issue, a common experience for musicians accustomed to minor aches and pains.
Sudden Swelling and Realization of a Serious Issue
Starkey had been anticipating performing with his band Mantra of the Cosmos at the Cavern Club in Liverpool. He initially disregarded the leg discomfort. However, after the second performance, he noticed significant swelling. “After the gig, upon returning to my dressing room and changing, I observed that my right calf had become twice the size of my left,” he stated. “It appeared dramatically swollen and was throbbing. I was very alarmed as I had never witnessed such swelling. It was evident that something was seriously wrong.”
Diagnosis and Deep Vein Thrombosis Explained
Concerned, Starkey traveled to London to consult a private specialist. “The physician examined my leg and conducted a blood test and ultrasound, which confirmed the diagnosis of a DVT,” Starkey disclosed. DVT, or deep vein thrombosis, is characterized by the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the leg.
Understanding the Risks of DVT
DVTs commonly develop in the calf and can manifest as pain, swelling, and redness. Immediate medical intervention is crucial because if the clot detaches, it can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that reduces oxygen supply, possibly leading to severe complications.
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Prevalence of DVT
Approximately 60,000 individuals in the UK develop DVT annually, with an estimated 25,000 deaths per year attributed to preventable venous blood clots, according to a 2015 NHS Health Research Authority report. Experts suggest this could be underestimated due to asymptomatic or misdiagnosed cases.
Expert Opinion on DVT Risks
Professor Alun Davies, a vascular surgery expert at Imperial College London, emphasizes, “DVT is an underestimated risk factor and a leading cause of cardiovascular-related deaths in the UK.” He listed tightness in the legs, leg pain, swelling, and redness as classic DVT symptoms, advising immediate medical attention should these symptoms arise.
Risk Factors and Potential Causes
Risk factors for DVT include recent surgery, long flights, and prolonged periods of inactivity, all of which can contribute to blood thickening and clot formation, according to Professor Davies. While smoking may also elevate DVT risk by making blood stickier, Professor Davies notes the evidence is less conclusive. Age is another factor increasing risk, although the exact reasons remain unclear.
Starkey’s Speculation on Possible Cause
Starkey considered whether his DVT might be linked to “sitting cross-legged excessively” and insufficient warm-up routines before performances at the Cavern Club. However, Professor Davies indicates a longer period of immobility would likely be necessary.
Diagnosis and Treatment Procedures
Diagnosing DVT involves a D-dimer blood test to measure clot-related protein levels, followed by an ultrasound to assess blood flow in deep veins.
Standard Treatment Approaches
Typical treatment involves regular physical activity and anticoagulant medication, such as warfarin or newer options like apixaban. Professor Davies mentions that these blood thinners are usually prescribed for at least three months to prevent recurrent DVTs.
Long-Term Management and Advanced Interventions
Patients with recurring blood clots may require indefinite anticoagulant therapy. While these drugs don’t dissolve existing clots, in cases of large clots posing pulmonary embolism risks, tPA medication might be used to break down the clot, though this is infrequent, according to Professor Davies.
Recurrence Risks and Preventative Measures
Individuals who have experienced DVT have a 5-10% lifetime recurrence risk, with some research suggesting approximately 30% may have a second DVT within ten years of the initial event.
Extended Anticoagulant Therapy
Professor Davies suggests prolonged blood thinner use can reduce recurrence likelihood; however, it elevates risks of bleeding and gastrointestinal issues. Warfarin can also impact bone density.
Compression Stockings: A Matter of Debate
The use of compression stockings post-DVT is debated. While they may enhance leg circulation and prevent blood pooling, guidelines vary. Some recommend them for up to two years, while others prioritize blood thinners, activity, hydration, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Expert Recommendation on Compression Stockings
Despite differing guidelines, Professor Davies, who co-authored a study supporting their use, believes compression stockings benefit patients. He warns that untreated DVT can lead to chronic leg swelling and ulcers. He recommends stockings for about a year to minimize post-thrombotic syndrome risks.
Preventative Measures for High-Risk Individuals
Professor Davies advises individuals at high risk taking flights to consult their GP about preventative blood thinners before traveling.
Starkey’s Relief and Future Outlook
Starkey described his DVT diagnosis as “a shock” but expressed relief at the quick diagnosis and that he was classified as “not high risk.” He is not required to wear compression stockings and is thankful to be alive. If he adheres to medical advice, there’s no reason he can’t continue drumming into his 80s, mirroring his father Ringo Starr’s enduring career.
Healthy Lifestyle and Recovery
Starkey, who considers himself in good health and reports no previous health issues, is recovering well. He maintains an active lifestyle with regular walks and plays actively with his young daughter, contributing to his fitness and recovery.