This post was written by ChungNing (John) Tan, MD, PPG – Family Medicine and Primary Care.
Blood clots, or thromboses, are serious medical conditions that demand immediate attention. They form when blood thickens and clumps together, creating a solid mass within a blood vessel. While clotting is a vital function to prevent excessive bleeding, abnormal clot formation can pose severe health risks, including life-threatening complications. This article explores the causes, risks, symptoms and necessary actions to address blood clots.
Key risk factors for blood clots
Several health conditions and events increase the likelihood of developing blood clots.
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Surgery and hospitalization – Patients recovering from major surgeries, such as hip or knee replacements, face a higher risk due to prolonged immobility and tissue trauma during the procedure.
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Cancer – Cancer and its treatments can elevate clotting risk. Tumors may release substances that encourage clot formation, while chemotherapy can damage blood vessels and reduce mobility.
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Pregnancy and postpartum period – Hormonal changes and increased pressure in the pelvic area during pregnancy or after delivery can lead to higher clotting susceptibility.
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Genetic conditions – Inherited disorders, such as Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin gene mutation, or deficiencies in Protein C and S, significantly increase the risk of blood clots.
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Chronic diseases – Heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes are among the chronic conditions that elevate the risk of clot formation.
Medications and lifestyle factors
Certain medications and lifestyle choices can further contribute to blood clot risk:
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Hormonal therapy – Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can heighten clotting risks due to increased estrogen levels.
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Smoking – Tobacco use damages blood vessels and thickens blood, promoting clot formation.
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Obesity – Excess body weight can reduce mobility and increase pressure on veins, especially in the lower extremities.
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Sedentary lifestyle – Extended periods of inactivity—such as during long flights or car rides—can lead to venous stasis, where blood pools in the legs, increasing clotting risk.
Recognizing the symptoms of blood clots
Timely identification of symptoms is crucial for prompt intervention. Familiarize yourself with these warning signs:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
DVT commonly occurs in the legs and presents with symptoms such as:
● Swelling
● Pain or tenderness
● Warmth and redness in the affected area
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
PE happens when a clot travels to the lungs. Warning signs include:
● Sudden shortness of breath
● Sharp chest pain, often worsening with deep breaths
● Rapid heart rate
● Coughing, sometimes with blood
Why blood clots are dangerous
Blood clots can block blood flow, leading to tissue damage or even death. For instance, a pulmonary embolism impairs oxygen exchange in the lungs and can be fatal without immediate treatment. Clots in the brain may cause strokes, resulting in permanent neurological damage or death.
What to do if you suspect a blood clot
If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of a blood clot, act immediately:
● Seek emergency medical care—do not attempt to self-diagnosis or treat.
● Visit the nearest hospital or call emergency services.
Healthcare providers can confirm the presence of a clot through diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or CT scans, and initiate appropriate treatment.
The importance of quick action
Timely intervention is essential to prevent complications such as tissue damage, organ failure or death. Treatment options include:
● Anticoagulants: Medications to prevent further clotting.
● Thrombolytic therapy: Drugs to dissolve existing clots in severe cases.
Prompt treatment reduces the risk of long-term effects and improves overall prognosis.
Prevention and awareness
Blood clots are a major health concern, but prevention is possible. Individuals with known risk factors should:
● Discuss preventive measures with their healthcare provider.
● Consider lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.
● Use medication when prescribed to manage clotting risks.
Awareness, education and proactive healthcare are vital to preventing and effectively managing blood clots.
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