What is Thrombosis
Thrombosis is the medical term used to describe a blood clot. Blood clotting is a normal process that occurs in the human body to stop bleeding. When blood changes from liquid form to solid or semi-solid form, it forms a clot.
When a clot occurs in deep veins, it can block the normal flow of blood and cause problems. The most common places for blood clots to form are in the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism or PE).
Blood clots may be life threatening and require immediate treatment. They are diagnosed using a combination of blood work and imaging tests.
What is Venous Thromboembolism? (VTE) |
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis? (DVT) |
What is Pulmonary Embolism? (PE) |
What is Arterial Thrombosis? (AT) |
Important facts about Thrombosis
- DVT or PE can develop in an otherwise healthy person
- Only half of people who have a thrombosis experience any signs or symptoms
- Symptoms may be present in one or both of the calves, the knees, the thighs, the groin area or the chest
- Thrombosis symptoms can change: be aware of changes!
- Thrombosis symptoms can take several weeks to resolve after treatment has started