Blood Clots : Signs and symptoms of blood clots, when to call a doctor

A blood clot is a clump of blood that changes from liquid to a semisolid state. Clotting is a significant process in the body as it prevents you from losing too much blood in certain situations, such as when you are injured or cut.

When a clot forms inside one of the veins of the body, sometimes it does not dissolve on its own. This can be dangerous and can even result in a life-threatening situation. An immobile blood clot is not harmful but there is a possibility that it may move and become dangerous. A blood clot, if broken can be really dangerous as it may travel through veins to the heart and lungs and get stuck and prevent blood flow. This can lead to a medical emergency. If such a situation occurs, kindly contact a doctor immediately.

Types of blood clots

The circulatory system of the body is formed by vessels and arteries. These vessels and arteries transport blood throughout the body. Blood clots can form in veins and arteries. When a blood clot occurs in an artery, it is called an arterial clot. The symptoms of this type of clot can be seen immediately and require emergency treatment. The symptoms of an arterial clot include severe pain, paralysis of parts of the body, or both. It can also lead to a stroke or heart attack.

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Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot is formed in one of the deep veins of your body, generally in legs. However, sometimes, it can even happen in your arm. The signs and symptoms of a blood clot include:

• Swelling, this generally happens in one leg or arm.
• Leg pain
• Reddish or bluish skin discolouration
• Leg feels warm to touch

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Pulmonary Embolism

Clots can break off from a DVT and travel to the lung, which causes a pulmonary embolism (PE). This can be fatal. The signs and symptoms of a PE include:

• Sudden Shortness of breath
• Chest pain-sharp, stabbing; it may get worse with every deep breath
• Rapid heart rate
• Unexplained cough, sometimes with bloody mucus

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If you ever face these problems, make sure you call the doctor immediately as these problems require immediate treatment. Also, never opt for any medication without consulting a good doctor. 

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