Overview of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

Blood clots (thrombosis) occur when blood thickens and forms a mass (thrombus) that can partially or completely block blood flow in veins or arteries. While clotting is essential to stop bleeding from injuries, abnormal blood clot formation inside blood vessels can lead to severe complications. Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger’s disease) is a rare inflammatory condition that affects small and medium sized blood vessels leading to reduced blood flow and an increased risk of thrombosis.

Types of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

• Arterial Thrombosis: Blood clots forming in the arteries, potentially causing heart attacks or strokes.
• Venous Thrombosis: Clots forming in veins, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
• Coronary Thrombosis: A clot in the heart arteries that can cause a heart attack.
• Cerebral Thrombosis: A clot in brain blood vessels, increasing the risk of a stroke.
• Peripheral Arterial Thrombosis: Clots that form in the legs or arms, reducing blood supply.
• Thrombophlebitis: Inflammation in veins leading to clot formation.

Symptoms of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

Symptoms depend on the location of the clot:

• Blood clot in the heart (coronary thrombosis): Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness.
• Blood clot in the brain (cerebral thrombosis): Sudden weakness, confusion, speech difficulties.
• Blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism): Difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, coughing up blood.
• Blood clot in the legs (deep vein thrombosis - DVT): Swelling, pain, redness and warmth in one leg.
• Blood clot in the neck: Pain, swelling and difficulty moving the neck.

Causes of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

Several factors contribute to thrombus formation:

Injury to blood vessels triggering clot formation.

Slow or stagnant blood flow is often seen in bedridden patients or during long flights.

Genetic clotting disorders that increase clotting tendencies.

Medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol and autoimmune diseases.

Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

Smoking which damages blood vessels and increases clot risk.

Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle that reduce circulation.

Complications in Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

If untreated thrombosis can lead to severe complications:

• Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A life-threatening condition caused by a clot traveling to the lungs.
• Heart Attack: A thrombus in the heart can obstruct blood flow, leading to a heart attack.
• Stroke: A cerebral thrombosis can cause brain damage due to restricted blood flow.
• Organ Damage: Clots in major organs like the liver or kidneys can cause dysfunction.
• Amputation: Severe thromboangiitis obliterans can lead to gangrene and limb loss.

Risk Factors of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

• Age: Risk increases with age.
• Genetics: Family history of thrombotic diseases raises risk.
• Prolonged immobility: Long periods of sitting or bed rest can cause blood clot formation.
• Chronic diseases: Diabetes, heart disease, and cancer increase risk.
• Surgery or trauma: Increased risk due to vessel damage and decreased mobility.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can increase clot risk.

Prevention of Blood Clots (Thrombosis)

• Stay Active: Regular exercise improves circulation and lowers clot risk.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water prevents blood thickening.
• Avoid Smoking: Reduces blood vessel damage.
• Manage Medical Conditions: Control diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure.
• Use Blood Thinners if Recommended: People at high risk may need anticoagulants.
• Move During Travel: On long flights, move your legs regularly to prevent DVT.