Blood Clots At A Glance

•Blood clots form when blood fails to circulate adequately.


•Arterial thrombi form when a plaque ruptures and promotes an acute clot formation.


•Venous thrombosis occurs when prolonged immobilization allows blood to pool in an extremity and then clot.


•The diagnosis is suggested by the history and physical examination and often confirmed with a radiologic test.


•Treatment may require surgery, anti-coagulation medications, or a combination of the two.


•Prevention of blood clots involves attention to the risk factors for vascular disease.


•Serious complications can arise from blood clots, and individuals should seek medical care if they believe a blood clot exists.