What Causes Blood Clots?

By albert

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Our blood is liquid in nature. When a portion of it changes from liquid to a semisolid or gel-like state, it is called a blood clot. Blood clotting is a natural process occurring when you are injured or cut to stop bleeding. Problems occur when blood clots form inside the veins. Although most of them dissolve naturally, sometimes, they do not. When a blood clot persists inside a vein, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism.

Blood clots can be either immobile or mobile. In general, immobile blood clots are not harmful. However, clots can be very dangerous when they move freely inside the circulatory system. They travel along veins to organs and may cause blockage in blood supply. Should they reach the heart or lungs, they cause life-threatening conditions. If you think that you have a blood clot, call your doctor immediately. Your doctor will be able to dissolve the clot if there is any and diagnose the case according to your symptoms and medical history.

1. Symptoms of Blood Clots

There are two main types of blood clots: deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) happens when blood clots are formed inside a deep vein. The most common site is the legs and, to a less extent, the arms. The symptoms of DVT include swelling, pain, tenderness, redness, and hotness of the affected area. The symptoms are similar to those of pulling a muscle. Pulmonary embolism means that the clot gets to the lungs. Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition. The signs and symptoms include sudden dyspnea, sharp, stabbing chest pain, increased heart rate, and a bloody cough.