Thrombosis (Blood Clots) | Boston Children’s Hospital

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Thrombosis is a blood clot that develops within veins or sometimes arteries in the body. Thrombosis may be serious or inconvenient but often occurs as a complication of a procedure, medication, or other disease. If left untreated a thrombosis can cause long-term problems; such as chronic swelling, pain, or even permanent damage to internal organs.

Thrombophilia refers to anything that increases one’s tendency to develop blood clots. Thrombosis in children is uncommon and is most often seen in children with complex medical problems or procedures. Thrombophilia can be considered the opposite of hemophilia, a disorder that prevents blood from clotting.

How is thrombophilia classified?

Thrombophilia refers to a group of disorders that increases a child’s tendency to develop dangerous blood clots. There are two main types of thrombophilia:

• Inherited thrombophilia is caused by certain genetic conditions.
• Acquired thrombophilia is caused by lifestyle factors or medical conditions, including immobility, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, trauma, smoking, or oral contraceptive use.

How we care for thrombosis

Children and young adults with blood clots are treated through the Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Thrombosis and Anticoagulation Program. Through our unique program, we can quickly identify children who need anticoagulation medications (or “blood-thinners”) using established monitoring and risk identification guidelines. Children outside of the hospital visit our outpatient center staffed by pediatric hematologists and pediatric hematology nurse practitioners with specialized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of thrombosis.

Our areas of research for thrombosis

For many children with rare or hard-to-treat conditions, clinical trials provide new options. Participation in any clinical trial is completely voluntary. We will take care to fully explain all elements of the treatment plan prior to the start of the trial, and you may remove your child from the medical study at any time. Currently, our hematology team is studying several new oral blood thinners in children for treatment and prevention of blood clots. We are also involved in an international study of the length of anticoagulation needed to treat thrombosis. Your hematologist may mention opportunities to participate in these studies, but you should feel free to ask about current research studies relevant to your child.

Researchers at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s perform scientific and clinical research on platelets and related aspects of hemostasis and thrombosis. A particular focus is antiplatelet therapy, including the characterization of:

• how newly discovered molecules and mechanisms could help control platelets and clotting
• how antiplatelet drugs affect normal blood clotting (coagulation) and aspects of the immune system (e. g., inflammation)
• the relationship between the strength of antiplatelet treatments and the balance between thrombosis (uncontrolled clotting) and hemorrhage (uncontrolled bleeding)
• how tests of platelet function could help guide antiplatelet therapy in the clinic

Thrombosis | Symptoms & Causes

What are the symptoms of thrombosis?

Thrombosis symptoms in children can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the blood clot, and each child may experience symptoms differently. A thrombosis may occur anywhere in a child’s body, but most are in the legs or arms (deep-vein thrombosis or DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). Other types of thrombosis include sinus venous thrombosis and arterial thrombosis.

Children with a thrombosis in the legs or arms may have the following symptoms:

• swelling
• pain
• redness and warmth
• low-grade fever
• in some cases, you may even be able feel the clot, like a knot or rope under the skin

If a child has a pulmonary embolism, they may experience:

• chest pain
• shortness of breath, often beginning suddenly

A pulmonary embolus is a life-threatening medical emergency, and you should seek help immediately if you suspect this condition in your child.

It is important to understand that some thrombosis symptoms may resemble those of other more common medical problems. Because some of these symptoms can also point to other conditions, it’s important to have your child evaluated by a qualified medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. If you have a family history of thrombosis, it is important to bring this up during evaluation for these symptoms.

What causes thrombosis?

There are three categories of causes of thrombosis: damage to the blood vessel (catheter or surgery), slowed blood flow (immobility), and/or thrombophilia (if the blood itself is more likely to clot).

Causes of thrombosis depend on whether your child has inherited or acquired thrombosis. Inherited thrombophilia is caused by certain genetic conditions while acquired thrombophilia is caused by lifestyle factors or medical conditions.

Possible factors for acquired thrombophilia include:

• immobility
• obesity
• sedentary lifestyle
• trauma

In teens and adults, risk factors also may include smoking or oral contraceptive use. Some patients with chronic inflammation or rheumatologic disorders may develop antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, a disorder where antibodies produced by the patient cause thrombosis to occur.

Thrombosis | Diagnosis & Treatments

How is thrombosis diagnosed?

The first step in treating your child is forming an accurate and complete diagnosis. If thrombosis is suspected, imaging is done to confirm the diagnosis and to define where the blood clot starts and ends. Thrombosis is sometimes found accidentally but mostly because patients develop signs and symptoms of a blood clot. 

If your child is suspected of having a thrombosis, diagnostic tests may include:

• a physical examination to evaluate symptoms of a blood clot
• ultrasound, an imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and their echoes to make images of the inside of your child’s body
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), an imaging exam that uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce two- and three-dimensional images of your child’s body’s organs, tissues, and bones
• computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan, a non-invasive procedure that uses X-ray equipment and computers to create detailed, cross-sectional images of your child’s body
• analysis of blood samples to evaluate whether your child’s blood is clotting normally and identify any abnormalities in the levels of certain proteins
• genetic tests may be performed to check for hereditary disorders (inherited thrombophilia)

There may be other diagnostic tests your doctor will discuss with you depending on your child’s individual situation. After we complete all necessary tests, our experts meet to review and discuss what they have learned about your child’s condition. Then we will meet with you and your family to discuss the results and outline the best possible treatment options.

What are the treatment options for thrombosis?

Your child’s treatment team will determine a specific care plan. In most cases, thrombosis is treated with anticoagulation medications (blood thinners). These medications prevent the clot from growing and decrease the risk of its breaking apart and causing further complications. Your child may need to continue taking these medications for several months after initial treatment.

Examples of anticoagulation medication your child’s physician may prescribe include:

• injections under the skin (also called subcutaneous injections) of a low molecular weight heparin such as enoxaparin (Lovenox) or dalteparin (Fragmin)
• oral agents such as warfarin (Coumadin)
• intravenous heparin
• antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), or prasugrel (Effient)

Other treatments may include wearing compression stockings, remaining active, and applying warm packs to improve blood flow and pain caused by the clot.

Of course, your child’s team of doctors will help determine the best approach for your child’s unique situation, based on a number of factors, including:

• your child’s age, overall health, and medical history
• the severity of the disease
• your child’s tolerance for certain medications, procedures, or therapies
• how your child’s doctors expect the disease to progress
• your opinion and preferences

What is the long-term outlook for children with thrombosis?

Some deep vein thromboses may resolve without treatment. Treatment is given to help get rid of the blood clot and to minimize complications of thrombosis. If the blood clot remains, other veins will enlarge to bypass the blockage. Sometimes these veins are visible, like varicose veins. After a blood clot some people develop long-term pain and swelling in the leg called post-thrombotic syndrome, which is caused by reduced blood flow and damage to the affected vein. Some patients also have changes in skin color, which may not develop for a year or more afterward.

Blood clots in the thigh are more likely to break off and travel to the lungs than blood clots below the knee or in the arms. A pulmonary embolism can be a life-threatening emergency, requiring immediate medical attention.

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Know the Warning Signs of a Blood Clot

Around 900,000 people in the U.S. will experience a blood clot this year. One in nine of those people will die. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs of a blood clot, especially if you are at high risk.

Eric Jackson
on
April 13, 2022

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All About Blood Clots

Your blood consists of different types of cells. When these cells stick together in a clump, a blood clot forms. Sometimes blood clots are helpful, like when you cut yourself and the blood clots at the wound to stop bleeding. But when blood clots form inside your veins and don’t break down, or if your body produces too many blood clots, it can be incredibly dangerous. Blood clots can prevent blood flow to key organs in your body, resulting in life-threatening situations.

There are two types of blood clots that are the most common.

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins in your legs and sometimes your arms.
• Pulmonary embolism is a DVT clot (or part of one) that has traveled into your lungs.

When blood clots form in blood vessels in other parts of your body, you can experience a heart attack, kidney failure or a stroke.

Risk Factors for Blood Clots

About half of all blood clots occur right after or even during a hospital stay for surgery. If you know you are at risk for blood clots or have a history of blood clots, let your doctors know this before any medical procedure.

Other risk factors for blood clots include:

• Age
• Cancer and cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy
• Certain genetic conditions
• COVID-19 diagnosis
• Diabetes
• Family history of blood clots
• Hormone replacement therapy and hormonal birth control use
• Long periods of seated travel, such as international flights 
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Smoking

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots

The signs of a blood clot will vary depending on where in your body the clot is. Often, blood clots will have no signs until they cause a pulmonary embolism. Sometimes a blood clot in the leg will feel like a pulled muscle, while one in your lung may feel like someone is sitting on your chest, preventing you from breathing.

A great way to remember the signs of a blood clot is by using the acronym STOP (the) CLOT.

• Swelling in the leg or arm
• Tenderness or cramps in the leg
• Out of breath, or shortness of breath
• Passing out or feeling lightheaded
• Chest pain or back pain when breathing
• Leg discoloration, either a red or blue hue
• Overdrive, when your heart is racing
• Time to call 911

Other symptoms of DVT include your leg or arm feeling warm to the touch. If you are experiencing a pulmonary embolism, symptoms could also include coughing up blood.

How to Prevent Blood Clots

If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing a blood clot, it’s important to get medical treatment immediately. It’s also important to talk to your doctor if you think you are at high risk for blood clots. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is possible to prevent blood clots with the use of medications like blood thinners. Blood clots may also be prevented by:

• Exercising regularly
• Getting up and walking every hour, if possible, on flights or other travel that involves sitting for long periods
• Losing weight
• Wearing compression socks or tights

Do you have blood clots and live in the Baltimore area? Find out how the Outpatient Anticoagulation Clinic at University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center can help you today.

Are you at risk for a blood clot?

The University of Maryland Medical System offers individualized treatment for blood clots and experienced vascular care to help prevent them.

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• Category:
  Health Awareness, Heart Conditions, Lung Conditions
• Tag:
  Concerning Symptoms, Health Awareness, Heart Conditions, lung, pulmonary, vascular, vein

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The content provided in this blog has been reviewed by University of Maryland Medical System providers or affiliates who are subject matter experts.

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Blood clots in the legs can be suspected by these signs – the doctor gave advice

How to recognize thrombosis in time (photo: freepik)

Author:
Vasilina Kopytko

Pain in the legs can be not only a sign of overwork, but also signal the appearance of blood clots in the veins. In no case should you ignore this symptom, because blood clots can break off and enter other organs through the bloodstream.

Express writes about the 4 warning signs of vein thrombosis.

What are the signs of a blood clot?

Venous surgeon Omar Abu-Bakr states that approximately 50% of people with deep vein thrombosis may not experience any symptoms at all. Therefore, sometimes this problem is called a “silent” state.

When symptoms appear, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

The doctor named 4 warning signs that indicate blood clots in the veins.

Edema

Swelling, usually in the leg, ankle or foot, is considered one of the signs of deep vein thrombosis.

“On its own, this symptom can be mistaken for something else, such as an insect bite. However, in combination with other signs, it can be an indicator of deep vein thrombosis,” the doctor explained.

Pain and spasms in dilated veins

Edema can often be accompanied by visibly swollen veins that are difficult to touch.

“In addition to swelling, people can also experience sharp, painful leg cramps. These usually start in the calves and then spread to the rest of the leg,” Omar said.

Warmth or redness

Deep vein thrombosis may cause a feeling of warmth in the affected area around the site of the thrombus.

“This heat is noticeable by the temperature difference between the affected area and other parts of the body,” Abu-Bakr specified.

Discoloration of the skin

The affected area may change its usual color and become pale with a red or blue tint.

“If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors for deep vein thrombosis, it’s important to see your doctor right away to prevent complications,” advises the venous surgeon.

How to reduce the risk of blood clots in the veins

The doctor recommends the use of compression stockings to improve blood circulation in the legs (especially useful when it comes to long-haul flights).

It is also important to be physically active to eliminate risk factors for deep vein thrombosis. Mobility will maintain a healthy weight, improve circulation and lung function, and strengthen muscles.

Drink regularly, this will reduce the risk of blood clots. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing (or take frequent breaks to stretch your legs).

“It is important to note that these strategies may not be effective in all cases, and some people may need additional interventions such as drugs or surgery to prevent thrombosis,” the doctor said.

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Doctor’s advice

Named signs that a deadly blood clot has already formed in your body

• Health

A blood clot can cause death – cause cardiac arrest, breathing and lead to a stroke. What signs might indicate that you are in danger? Named the symptoms of the appearance of blood clots in the vessels.

April 6, 2022

Source:

Getty Images

A blood clot is a blood clot that forms in thick vessels (most often in the legs and heart) and blocks the blood supply. Having broken away and moving with the bloodstream, a blood clot can cause a sudden blockage of a vessel – moreover, even located quite far from the place where the blood clot formed. If it enters the lungs or brain, a pulmonary embolism (PE) or stroke develops.

Why blood clots form – 6 factors

Taking hormonal birth control pills

Hormones can thicken your blood and cause hypercoagulability. But according to statistics, a blood clot occurs in one in a hundred women taking birth control. Overall, these pills are safe, highly effective, and their other health benefits outweigh the possible risks.

Some doctors recommend testing for a predisposition to increased blood clotting before taking hormones. This is a comprehensive genetic study that allows you to determine the risk of developing hereditary thrombophilia.

Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy (especially estrogen levels) can also cause blood clots due to hypercoagulability. The most dangerous in this sense is the third trimester of pregnancy or the period immediately after childbirth.

Smoking

Smoking can cause many health problems, including blood clots. Smoking disrupts the mechanisms of blood clotting and negatively affects blood vessels. They are destroyed and damaged by the chemicals in cigarettes.

Surgery

Some hip, abdominal and leg surgeries increase the risk of blood clots. Patients who have undergone surgery, after which mobility is noticeably limited, are at greatest risk. The solution may be to wear special stockings and resume physical activity as much as possible after surgery.

Overweight

Obesity causes slow blood flow in the veins, which increases the risk of blood clots.

Heart disease

If the heart does not work properly, blood flow is disturbed – blood flows more slowly and is distributed unevenly throughout the body. This can lead to the formation of blood clots.

See also

How to reduce the risk of blood clots

• regular exercise,

• weight control, BMI less than 25,

• 9000 2 smoking cessation,

• during sedentary work – “sports » five minutes every hour,

• a healthy plant-based diet,

• keeping LDL or “bad” cholesterol below 100 mg/dL,

• blood pressure control,

• addition of omega-3 fatty acids to the diet.

Signs of a fatal blood clot

Leg clot

“Blood clots most commonly form in the lower leg or thigh,” says Dr. Vincent Nouri, board certified vascular surgeon at Baltimore Medical Center. — The most common signs of thrombosis are swelling, pain, fever, and erythema — reddening of the skin. Most often, these symptoms appear on the calves of both one leg and both.

Thrombus in the arm

Clots are less common in the arm than in the legs. Signs of a blood clot in the arm are swelling, pain, tingling, or discomfort when moving the elbow or wrist.

Thrombosis in the lung

Signs of a blood clot in the lungs – shortness of breath (especially on exertion), chest pain, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat.

Read also

When you urgently need to see a doctor

If you have the above symptoms, you should definitely visit a doctor and pass the necessary tests.

The situation is especially dangerous for those who can answer yes to the questions below. These patients should seek emergency medical attention

• You have traveled within the last 90 days (you have had a long flight or a long non-stop car ride).

• You have suffered a moderate or severe injury (eg painful fall, severe bruising, fracture).

• You have recently had surgery.

• You are taking hormonal birth control or are on hormone replacement therapy.

• You have recently been diagnosed with cancer.

• You have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or coughing up blood.

Read also

Earlier, doctor Vladimir Pirozhnikov told what eating habits can cause thrombosis. At risk, for example, lovers of pork and beef liver. The fact is that it contains many vitamins of the K group – and they have a bad effect on blood clotting and increase the likelihood of blood clots.

The doctor also called a feeling of lack of air, increased swelling, cramps in the legs, pain in the abdomen and bouts of nausea and vomiting as signs of a blood clot.

Text author:Anna Mayskaya

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