Blood clotting can have several causes, and they range from inherent problems with the blood, blood vessel defects, or it can be the result of an underlying disease. Whatever the cause may be, it can lead to severe organ damage and may be fatal. For this reason, you need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clotting.

 

Symptoms

The symptoms will depend on the location of the clot and the severity. For instance, a blood clot in the lungs or the heart will cause chest pain, discomfort in the jaw, neck, back or the arms, and these symptoms may also be indicative of a pulmonary embolism (PE) or a heart attack. On the other hand, blood clot in the leg’s veins will produce symptoms like swelling in the lower portion of the leg, warmth, redness and pain. These signs may also be indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Blood clot in the brain will produce more severe symptoms like paralysis, speech changes or slurring, headaches and inability to speak or comprehend. These symptoms are strong indicators of a heart attack or stroke and should be treated by a doctor immediately. Blood clots, it must be stressed, can lead to complications, which is why it is vital you understand the symptoms. Even if you experience symptoms with blood clotting on the leg, you should still seek medical aid as soon as possible.

When to Seek Medical Help

As stated above, it is best to get medical help as soon as the symptoms manifest regardless which part of your body it may be. The reason is clots can cause complications because they restrict the flow of blood, be it in the limbs, lungs or heart, which can lead to organ failure and even death. One of the most serious complications is a stroke, which can happen if the blood flow in your brain is blocked by clot. If this is left untreated, the brain cells will die and lead to physical paralysis and impairment. Blood clots to the heart on the other hand, can lead to a fatal heart attack.

Treatment

Blood thinners are the most common medications given to patients with this condition. Another drug that your doctor may recommend is Plavix (clopidogrel), which is designed to keep your blood platelets from clotting. Taken according to your doctor’s direction, this will prevent fatal blood vessel clotting. In fact, Plavix is usually prescribed by doctors to patients who have just suffered a heart attack or stroke, and also those with blood vessel and other heart disorders.

While this medication can prevent blood clotting, you need to be aware that this can cause you to bleed easily, even with a minor scratch. If you have bleeding that won’t stop, contact your doctor immediately. Other serious side effects that require immediate medical attention are blood in the stools, coughing up blood or vomiting what look like coffee grounds. These are symptoms of digestive tract bleeding and require medical attention. You should also inform your doctor of your medical history before asking for a prescription.