Understanding Blood Clots: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
- This condition, called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is a medical emergency.
- If they block arteries supplying blood to the heart, they can lead to heart attacks.
- After her diagnosis, Ridler received a fast-acting blood thinner.
Understanding Blood Clots and Their Risks
Tina Ridler experienced alarming symptoms last October. Her right leg became swollen, achy, and hot. A doctor recommended a scan at the emergency department. An ultrasound revealed a large blood clot in her leg.
This condition, called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is a medical emergency. Clots can move to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. Dr. Karol Watson, a cardiologist at UCLA, stresses the importance of addressing this promptly.
Common Symptoms of Blood Clots
Not everyone with a blood clot has symptoms. If a clot forms in the leg or arm, signs may include:
- Swelling
- Pain or tenderness
- Warmth
- Redness or discoloration
If a pulmonary embolism occurs, symptoms may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing
- Coughing or coughing up blood
- Low blood pressure, lightheadedness, or fainting
These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Potential Locations of Clots
Blood clots can occur in various locations. If they block arteries supplying blood to the heart, they can lead to heart attacks. Clots may also travel to the brain, causing strokes.
After her diagnosis, Ridler received a fast-acting blood thinner. This medication aimed to dissolve her clot quickly. Ridler recalls the urgency expressed by her doctors: “The clock was ticking.”
Annually, up to 900,000 Americans develop blood clots, according to the CDC. Between 60,000 and 100,000 die from them. Older adults face a greater risk.
The Clotting Process
Clotting serves a crucial purpose. For instance, it helps stop bleeding when someone cuts their finger. Clots cover wounds, providing protection as they heal. The body dissolves these clots naturally over time.
In some cases, like DVT, clots form without injury and do not dissolve. They can block blood flow back to the heart, causing buildup and pressure, leading to pain and swelling, as experienced by Ridler.
Understanding blood clots is vital for swift action and treatment. Recognizing the signs and symptoms can save lives.