Blood clots may sound simple blood changing from liquid to a gel-like state but they play a powerful and sometimes dangerous role in the body.
At First Priority ER, we want our patients to understand this delicate balance. Clots are essential for survival, yet under certain conditions, they can create life-threatening emergencies. Knowing the difference is key to protecting your health.
What Exactly Is a Blood Clot?
Clotting, also called coagulation, is your body’s natural way of stopping bleeding. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets rush in to form a plug. Special proteins, called clotting factors, weave a fibrin “net” that holds everything in place, sealing the wound.
Without this process, even a small cut could be dangerous. But when clots form where they shouldn’t inside blood vessels without injury they can block blood flow and cause major complications.
Types of Blood Clots
- Arterial Clots: Form in arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart. These can block blood supply to vital organs, sometimes causing a heart attack or stroke.
- Venous Clots: Form in veins, which return blood to the heart. These clots can lead to conditions like:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Clots that usually form in the legs.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE): When a clot travels to the lungs, becoming a medical emergency.
Together, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE).
What Causes Blood Clots?
1. Inactivity or Immobility
Long flights, extended bed rest, or sitting for hours can slow circulation and increase clot risk.
2. Injury or Surgery
Damage to blood vessel walls, even from routine surgery, can trigger clot formation as part of healing.
3. Medical Conditions and Lifestyle
Heart disease, cancer, autoimmune disorders, smoking, and obesity all raise clotting risks.
4. Medications and Hormones
Certain prescriptions including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can increase the likelihood of clotting.
5. Genetic Predisposition
A family history of clots can make some people more prone to them. In these cases, screening and genetic counseling may be recommended.
Recognizing Risk Factors
Some factors make blood clots more likely, including:
- Age
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of clots
By knowing your personal risk profile, you can take preventive steps from lifestyle changes to medical monitoring.
Prevention and Care at First Priority ER
The goal isn’t just to stop dangerous clots, but to recognize when you’re at risk before an emergency happens. Staying active, avoiding smoking, managing medical conditions, and discussing medications with your doctor all play a role in prevention.
At First Priority ER, our team is equipped to quickly diagnose and treat emergencies caused by blood clots, such as DVT or pulmonary embolism. We’re also here to help you understand your risk factors and guide you toward prevention strategies that keep you safer in the long run.
Bottom Line
Blood clots protect us when we’re injured, but they can also become harmful if they form in the wrong place. By understanding the causes and recognizing your personal risks, you can take steps to stay healthy — and know when it’s time to seek emergency care.
👉 If you ever experience sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling and pain in your leg, don’t wait. Visit First Priority ER immediately. Our emergency physicians are available 24/7 in New Braunfels, Cibolo, and surrounding communities to give you the fast, expert care you need.
