Thrombotic Disorders
Thrombotic disorders are conditions which interfere with hemostasis, the natural process of blood clotting. When hemostasis functions normally, blood clots, or thrombi, form when there is damage to a blood vessel, but do not produce clots that block normal vessels. Abnormalities can result in the inability to form clots or in the excessive formation of clots, both of which can cause serious damage and may even be fatal.
Causes of Thrombotic Disorders
Thrombotic disorders may be the result of a hereditary conditions or may be acquired. Hypercoagulation may be precipitated by prolonged inactivity or certain diseases. Individuals who are obese or smoke, or who are pregnant or take birth control or hormone replacement medication are at increased risk of abnormal clotting.
Types of Thrombotic Disorders
Thrombotic disorders are distinguished by the location of the clot and the severity of the condition.
Heart Attack
When the heart muscle tissue is deprived of oxygenated blood by a blockage, it is called a heart attack, or myocardial infarction. The extent of the damage to the heart depends on the size and location of the blockage and the length of time part of the heart is deprived of oxygen.
Acute Ischemic Stroke
An acute ischemic stroke occurs when a clot causes a loss of blood supply to the brain tissues and results in a loss of some neurological function. Acute ischemic strokes are more common than hemorrhagic strokes in which are caused by profuse bleeding rather than clots.
Transient Ischemic Attack or TIA
A TIA has the same causes as an acute ischemic stroke, but a TIA is a transient neurological event. It occurs when a clot impedes blood flow to the brain or spine cord. The symptoms of a TIA, sometimes called a mini-stroke, usually resolve within 24 hours.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
When a clot forms in a deep vein in the thigh, leg or pelvic muscle, it is called deep vein thrombosis. This is a dangerous condition since there is a risk of pulmonary embolism, heart attack, or stroke if the clot breaks off and travels through the circulatory system.
Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage of one or more arteries in the lungs. Most often it results from a clot that breaks off from a deep vein thrombosis and travels to the region through the circulatory system.
Phlebitis
Phlebitis, also called superficial phlebitis, is a clot that occurs in a superficial vein, causing localized pain and swelling. Phlebitis clots do not normally travel to the lungs, but must still be taken seriously and treated promptly since it is possible for them to move into the deep veins and become dangerous.