A Complete Guide to Blood Clots: What You Need to Know

Blood clots are clumps of blood that form when blood thickens and clots, often to stop bleeding. However, when they form in veins or arteries, they can block blood flow and cause serious health risks. Treatments include blood thinners, clot-dissolving medications, and sometimes surgery.

Despite how common they are, few people know much about blood clots. Upwards of 900,000 people experience a blood clot every year, and, if left untreated, a blood clot can be harmful, leading to serious medical conditions or even death. According to the CDC, pulmonary embolism–a type of blood clot–is a leading cause of death in women during pregnancy or just after having a baby. One in four people who have a PE die without warning, and 3 in 10 people who have a blood clot will experience another episode within 10 years. Moreover, only half of those with deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, ever experience symptoms.

However, the good news is that blood clots are highly treatable and very often preventable. At CardioVascular Health Clinic, our dedicated team of qualified specialists is committed to your cardiovascular and vascular health, including the prevention, treatment, and management of conditions like blood clots. We combine our decades of experience with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and a whole-person approach to care to help ensure that you and your loved ones can enjoy longer, healthier lives.

What Is a Blood Clot?

Blood clots form when your blood thickens, and the cells clump together. It’s a natural process that helps your body to stop bleeding after an injury. 

However, sometimes blood clots can form in your veins or arteries. When these gel-like masses block the normal flow of blood, it can lead to health problems. Some complications that arise from blood clots include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or even a stroke.

Types of Blood Clots

There are two main categories of blood clots: those that form in the veins and those that form in the arteries.

1. Venous Blood Clots

These clots form in the veins — the vessels that carry blood back to the heart. The most common venous clot is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVTs most often form in the lower legs but can also form in the thighs, pelvis, or arms. A DVT can become dangerous if part of the clot breaks off and travels through your bloodstream. If the clot reaches your lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening and needs immediate treatment.

2. Arterial Blood Clots

Arterial clots form in the arteries — the vessels that carry blood away from your heart to the rest of your body. When these types of clots form, they can prevent blood from flowing to vital organs. For example, a clot in the arteries leading to the heart can cause a heart attack, while a clot in the brain can lead to a stroke.

Both types of clots can be serious, so if you experience any of the signs of a blood clot, it’s important to see a doctor. With proper medical attention and treatment, you can avoid many of the complications associated with blood clots.

Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots is important for everyone. While they are rare in young, healthy people, anyone can get a blood clot. By paying attention to the early warning signs, you’ll be able to seek treatment faster and reduce your risk of more serious complications.

You should seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as:

• A sudden or unexplained shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing

This could be an indication that a clot is blocking blood flow or has broken loose, in which case quick treatment can be lifesaving and prevent further problems.

There are also signs and symptoms that are specific to certain types of blood clots.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

• Swelling in the affected leg, foot, or ankle unrelieved by leg elevation
• Pain or tenderness in your leg that is often described as cramping or soreness.
• Red or discolored skin.
• Warmth in the leg.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE):

• Sudden shortness of breath that often occurs without any obvious cause.
• Chest pain, which may feel sharp or get worse when you take deep breaths.
• A rapid pulse or heart palpitations.
• Coughing up blood.

Arterial Clots (Heart Attack or Stroke):

• For a heart attack: Chest pain, pressure, or tightness, along with shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness.
• For a stroke: Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, trouble speaking, vision changes, confusion, or loss of balance.

Risk Factors for Blood Clots

Certain factors can increase the chance of blood clots developing. By knowing what they are, you can make better decisions about how to prevent them and your treatment options.

• Immobility. When you sit or lie down for an extended time — such as during a long flight or after surgery — you can increase the risk of developing DVT. When you’re inactive, blood can pool in the legs and form clots. To reduce this risk, stand up or move your legs whenever possible.

• Surgery and injury. Surgery, especially those that involve the legs or abdomen, increases the risk of clots. Your body responds to surgery like it would to an injury — by thickening the blood to prevent excessive bleeding. This response can sometimes lead to clots.

• Pregnancy and birth Control. The risk of blood clots, particularly DVT,  is raised during and after pregnancy as the result of hormonal changes. The same is true when using birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

• Chronic health conditions. There are many conditions that can add to your risk of a blood clot developing. Some of these include cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and lupus.

• Smoking and obesity. Smoking and obesity each raise your risk of developing blood clots. Smoking causes damage to blood vessels and makes it easier for clots to form. Obesity can put added strain on your veins, which contributes to the risk of DVT. Embracing healthy lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking and sustaining a healthy weight, can reduce your risk.

• Age and genetics. Older adults are more prone to blood clots. In addition, individuals with a family history of blood clots or clotting disorders are at a greater risk.

Prevention: 5 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of a Blood Clot

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent blood clots or reduce your chances of them forming.

1. Stay Active

Physical activity helps grow and enlarge blood vessels, which keeps your blood flowing smoothly. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio activity per week. Also, if you sit for long periods — such as working at a desk or when you’re traveling — be sure to take breaks to walk around and stretch your legs. This will keep blood from pooling and reduce the risk of DVT.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet can help you manage your weight. When you maintain a healthy weight, you lower your risk of blood clots, as well as many other health issues.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking damages your blood vessels and can make your blood stickier and flow more slowly. If you smoke, one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk of blood clots is to quit. 

4. Take Medications as Directed

Your doctor may prescribe blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) to prevent clots from forming. It’s important to take medicine as prescribed to lower your risk.

5. Compression Stockings

If you have a higher risk of developing DVT, your doctor may recommend compression stockings. These tight-fitting socks can keep blood from pooling and help improve circulation in your legs.

Treatment Options for Blood Clots

When doctors treat blood clots, the method they use will depend on where it is located and the severity of the clot, as well as your current health status. Some common ways to treat blood clots include:

• Anticoagulant medication. Anticoagulants (also called blood thinners) are often prescribed to prevent clots from developing or growing larger. These medications won’t dissolve existing clots. but they do reduce the risk of complications.

• Thrombolytic therapy. This treatment, also known as fibrinolytic therapy, uses medications to dissolve clots quickly. It is generally used in more serious cases, such as a life-threatening pulmonary embolism or a stroke, to break apart clots and restore blood flow.

• Surgical procedures. Your doctor may recommend surgery in some cases to remove a clot. This procedure is called a thrombectomy and may be considered, especially if the clot is blocking blood flow to a critical area of the body.  

• Filters. For patients who cannot take blood thinners or who are at risk of pulmonary embolism, a special filter may be placed in the large vein leading from the lower body to the heart. This filter is designed to catch any clots that may travel from the legs.

Comprehensive Treatment for Blood Clots at CardioVascular Health Clinic

Blood clots can be frightening, but when you arm yourself with the right information and seek proactive care, they can be managed and even prevented. By understanding your risk factors, knowing the signs and symptoms to watch for, and following your doctor’s advice, you’ll protect your health and reduce your risk of developing a blood clot.
If you have concerns or think you might be at risk for blood clots, schedule a consultation with the vascular experts at CardioVascular Health Clinic. Together, we can develop a plan to reduce your risk and improve your overall cardiovascular health.