Blood clots are a vital part of our body's defense against the outside world. Blood cells and strands of fibrin combine to stop the flow of blood after a cut or scrape. If our blood was not able to clot a simple scrape or cut would lead to death.
Aside from the useful reason's that blood clots there are many times that it can become problematic. For example, blood clotting in an artery or vein can be dangerous because the flow of blood can be obstructed. This can lead to either a stroke or heart attack.
A blood clot in the lung is likely to cause some sharp pains in the chest, inability to catch your breath, increase in heart rate, coughing up blood and a fever. Abdominal blood clots lead to major pain in the abdomen, purging and diarrhea. Artery clots in the arm or leg is often signified by sharp and sudden pains, swelling, tender or a bluish color to the skin. A blood clot in the brain can be indicated by a seizure, tiredness (as if you had the flu), problems with the vision and words not coming out right.
If you think that you might have a blood clot, based on the symptoms described above, then you should rush to the doctor or hospital. Your medical history will be looked at and you will receive a detailed physical examination. The doctor will likely choose to give you a doppler ultrasound, MRI or CAT scan to help them make an accurate decision. The location of a blood clot means a great deal as to how dangerous it is.
There are a variety of things that can lead to a risk of developing blood clots. If you are a smoker then you should try to quit as soon as possible. Obesity is a major contributor to developing blood clots. Problems with blood clotting has strong ties within the family. If one family member has had problems with it then you are in a risk group.
The type of treatment that is given depends on where the clot has formed and whether it is in a vein or an artery. A clot that has formed in an artery and caused a heart attack or stroke can be dissolved by using thrombolytic medications that are given through an IV. If a clot forms in a vein there is a risk that it could dislodge and end up in a lung. The doctor is likely to tell you to use heat, drugs that kill the clot and painkillers to try and dissolve the clot. If the clot is a high risk factor then emergency surgery will become necessary.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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