Thrombosis: Consequences of Clots in Undamaged Blood Vessels

Pathological Consequences

1. Ischemia: Clot blocks blood flow → tissue oxygen/nutrient deprivation. Coronary clot → heart attack; cerebral clot → stroke.
2. Embolization: Clot fragment (embolus) travels, lodges in narrower vessel → downstream ischemia. Pulmonary embolism is life-threatening.
3. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Clot in deep leg veins → pain, swelling. Risk of pulmonary embolism if dislodged.
4. Arterial thrombosis: Clot in arteries supplying brain, heart, kidneys → tissue damage, organ dysfunction, necrosis.
5. Superficial thrombophlebitis: Clot in superficial veins → inflammation, pain, redness. Less severe but may need treatment.

Clots in healthy vessels signal underlying disorders (clotting abnormalities, vascular disease). Seek immediate care for sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or limb swelling/pain.