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What are the causes of thrombosis?

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In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people diagnosed with chronic diseases such as heart problems, diabetes, and obesity. Such diseases, coupled with unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet and lack of physical activity, have contributed to a significant rise in thrombosis cases. As these diseases continue to spread among people of different age groups, it is important to understand thrombosis and its potential complications so you can seek timely medical attention. Here, we will explore what are the causes of thrombosis and the complications associated with the condition.

What is thrombosis?

Thrombosis is a condition caused by the formation of a blood clot in a vein or artery. These clots can block blood flow and lead to severe health issues depending on their location. In some cases, the clots may break free and travel to other body parts, causing further complications.

For example, if the clot becomes lodged in the brain, lungs, or any other critical location, it can block blood flow, creating a life-threatening situation that requires immediate medical attention.

While thrombosis can affect anyone, individuals with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and other pre-existing health issues are at a higher risk. Also, anything that prevents the blood from flowing freely or clotting normally can increase the risk of thrombosis. Understanding the risk factors and recognising the symptoms is crucial for seeking timely treatment and preventing complications.

Some common risk factors of thrombosis are —

• Being over 60

• Having blood clotting disorders, atherosclerosis, or atrial fibrillation

• Being diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart valve disease

• A history of heart attack or stroke

• Undergoing chemotherapy

• A family history of blood clots

• Pregnancy

• Obesity

• Paralysis in the leg

• Sitting for long periods

• Using tobacco

What are the complications of thrombosis?

The complications of the condition depend on the location of the blood clot. Below are some common locations where thrombosis can occur —

1. Lungs:

Thrombosis in the lungs can lead to a pulmonary embolism, a condition which occurs when a blood clot from another part of the body travels through the veins to your lungs. This clot reduces blood flow to the lungs, limiting the amount of oxygen they receive. Low oxygen levels increase blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This can damage the lungs and put excessive strain on the heart, increasing the risk of heart failure.

Symptoms:

• Sharp pain in the chest, neck, shoulder, and other surrounding areas

• Pain while breathing in

• Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

2. Brain:

If the blood clot travels to the brain, it can cause a condition called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke. This is a temporary stroke, which means that the condition occurs due to a temporary lack of blood flow to a part of your brain, leading to dysfunction and the gradual death of brain cells. While the symptoms of a TIA go away within 24 hours, it significantly increases the risk of having a full-blown stroke in the future.

Symptoms:

• Confusion or sudden changes in behaviour

• Weakness or difficulty controlling muscles on one side of the body

• Slurred or unclear speech

• Noticeable drooping and loss of muscle control on one side of the face

3. Heart:

Thrombosis can also lead to a heart attack or myocardial infarction, a severe condition caused by the gradual death of heart muscle tissue. When a blockage occurs in the arteries, it restricts blood flow to the heart. Due to this lack of blood supply, the heart muscles begin to die, resulting in a heart attack. If normal blood flow isn’t restored quickly, a heart attack can cause permanent damage to the heart or even death.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing

• Angina (chest pain or discomfort)

• Dizziness or fainting

• Fatigue and weakness

• Pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or back

4. Neck:

The carotid arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain and other tissues in your head and neck. The presence of a blood clot in these arteries can block blood flow to the brain, potentially leading to transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.

Symptoms:

• Sudden severe headache

• Drooping on one side of the face

• Dizziness or loss of balance

• Difficulty speaking or slurred speech

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body

5. Abdomen:

Thrombosis can also lead to mesenteric ischemia, a condition caused by restricted blood flow to parts of the digestive system. A lack of oxygen-rich blood prevents the affected organs from functioning properly. In severe cases, a blockage can cause the death of the affected organs and tissues.

Symptoms:

• Severe pain in the stomach, especially after eating

• Fever and fatigue

• Diarrhoea, which may include blood

• Bloating, nausea, and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Unexplained weight loss

What are the types of thrombosis?

There are two main types of thrombosis —

1. Arterial thrombosis:

In this type, the clot forms in the arteries that carry blood away from the heart to the rest of your body. Arterial thrombosis can cause conditions like heart attacks or strokes, depending on where the clot occurs.

The symptoms of arterial thrombosis are:

• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

• Unclear speech

• Confusion

• Sudden vision problems

• Drooping mouth

• Inability to lift both arms

2. Venous thrombosis:

Venous thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in the vein that carries blood from the body back to the heart. It is the most common cause of pulmonary embolism, a condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs.

The symptoms of venous thrombosis are:

• Swelling in the affected limb (often the leg)

• Swollen veins that may be visible under the skin

• Red or discoloured skin over the affected vein

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area, especially when standing or walking

• Warmth or a feeling of heat in the affected area

• Heaviness in the affected limb

Is thrombosis common?

Yes, thrombosis is a common condition. It is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Reports suggest that the condition is responsible for approximately 1 in 4 deaths globally. This is because thrombosis can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolism.

Certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing thrombosis. These include —

• Cancer

• Atrial fibrillation

• Diabetes

• Coronary artery disease

Additionally, clotting disorders, like antiphospholipid syndrome, can also contribute to the formation of dangerous blood clots. Lifestyle factors, such as tobacco use, can further elevate the risk. Therefore, it is important to recognise the risk factors and seek timely medical assistance to prevent complications associated with thrombosis.

Given the ever-increasing healthcare costs, it is wise to stay covered under a health insurance policy and critical illness insurance for those uncertain times. These insurance products can cover a significant portion of your hospital bills, allowing you to opt for quality treatment without the stress of exorbitant bills.

Conclusion

Thrombosis is a life-threatening condition that requires timely attention and treatment. Therefore, understanding what are the causes of thrombosis and recognising the risk factors can help prevent the condition and its associated complications. Early intervention and proper management are key to reducing the risks associated with blood clots.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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