Thrombosis
Synopsis
Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a blood vessel, which can obstruct the normal flow of blood. It can occur in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis), and may lead to serious complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attack, or stroke. The clot may remain in place or break off (embolize), traveling to vital organs and creating life-threatening blockages. Thrombosis is influenced by blood vessel injury, slow or stagnant blood flow, and increased clotting tendency (hypercoagulability). Early identification and management are critical to prevent long-term damage or fatal outcomes.
Types:
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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg
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Pulmonary embolism (PE): A clot that travels to the lungs—often from a DVT
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Arterial thrombosis: Affects arteries and can lead to heart attack or stroke
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Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: Clot in brain venous channels
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Superficial thrombophlebitis: Clot in a vein near the surface, often less dangerous
Common Causes:
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Prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights, bed rest)
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Surgery, especially orthopedic or abdominal
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Trauma or injury to blood vessels
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Hormonal therapy (e.g., estrogen-containing contraceptives)
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Pregnancy and postpartum state
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Obesity or smoking
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Genetic clotting disorders (e.g., Factor V Leiden)
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Cancer or inflammatory diseases
Severity Causes:
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Clots in major vessels or vital organs
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Recurrent or untreated clots
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Underlying autoimmune or clotting disorders
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Poor circulation or dehydration
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Delay in diagnosis or lack of anticoagulation
When to See a Doctor:
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Swelling, pain, or warmth in the leg or arm (DVT)
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Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing blood (possible PE)
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Numbness, weakness, or slurred speech (possible stroke)
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Visual disturbances or severe headache (cerebral thrombosis)
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Recurrent pregnancy loss or unexplained clotting events
Natural Remedies
Omega-3 fatty acids: Natural blood thinners that reduce platelet aggregation and inflammation. Support vascular health and clot prevention.
Magnesium: Supports healthy blood pressure and vascular tone. May help reduce risk of clot-promoting spasms and enhance circulation.
Vitamin C: Strengthens blood vessels and supports endothelial function, reducing the likelihood of vascular injury.
Vitamin E: Antioxidant with mild blood-thinning properties that supports vascular repair and circulation.
Probiotics: Help regulate systemic inflammation and may play a role in preventing clot-promoting microbial imbalances, especially in gut-involved clotting disorders.
Hydration and movement: Drinking water and maintaining circulation (e.g., leg movement during travel) are key to preventing venous stasis and clot formation.
Avoid prolonged sitting: Stand, stretch, or walk regularly, especially during travel, recovery, or sedentary work.
Compression garments (if advised): Improve venous return and reduce pooling of blood in the limbs, especially post-surgery or during travel.