Blood clots

Blood clots are semi-solid masses of blood that can form in the circulatory system. They are a natural part of the body's response to injury, but can also cause serious health problems if they block blood flow to vital organs.

Formation

Blood clots form through a process called coagulation. When a blood vessel is injured, the body releases chemicals that activate platelets and plasma proteins. The platelets stick together to form a plug, while the plasma proteins create a mesh-like structure that hardens to form a clot.

Types

There are two main types of blood clots: thrombus and embolus. A thrombus is a clot that forms in a blood vessel and stays there. An embolus is a clot that forms in one part of the body and travels to another part.

Risks

Blood clots can cause serious health problems if they block blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of blood clots often involves anticoagulant medications, which reduce the blood's ability to clot. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can also reduce the risk of blood clots.

See Also

• Coagulation
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism
• Stroke
• Heart attack