Leg pain or difficulty breathing? These are the symptoms of thrombosis

A journey into internal anatomy: Stunning details of the network of veins and blood in the human body, revealing the wonder of its complexity. – (Illustrative image Infobae)

Thrombosis is a condition that occurs when blood clots form inside the veins or arteries, partially or completely obstructing blood flow. This condition can have multiple causes and risk factors and, depending on its location, can lead to serious complications, including death. Its understanding, prevention and treatment are crucial for public health.

There are two main types of thrombosis: venous and arterial thrombosis. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which usually occurs in the legs, and pulmonary embolism are examples of venous thrombosis.

On the other hand, the blocked artery can lead to serious conditions such as heart attacks or strokes, depending on the artery affected.

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Symptoms vary widely depending on the type of thrombosis:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): May not show symptoms initially. When it does, the most common symptoms include swelling, pain, redness, and warmth over the affected area, usually in the legs. It is crucial to pay attention to these signs as a DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
• Pulmonary Embolism: Symptoms include sudden difficulty breathing, chest pain that may worsen with deep breathing, cough that may produce blood, rapid heartbeat, and in some cases, dizziness or fainting.
• Arterial Thrombosis: Symptoms vary depending on the affected artery but may include severe and rapid pain in the affected area, difficulties speaking or moving certain parts of the body, loss of vision in one eye or chest pains.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing thrombosis, including prolonged immobility, recent surgeries, heart disease or cancer, certain hormonal treatments, smoking, obesity, pregnancy, and genetic conditions that affect blood clotting.

Prevention includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and regular exercise. In high-risk situations, such as long periods of immobilization or after certain surgeries, anticoagulant medications may be indicated to prevent clots from forming.

Thrombosis (Photo: Twitter@PatologCritica)

The diagnosis of thrombosis is made through several studies, including Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), among others, which allow visualization of blood flow and the presence of clots.

Treatment seeks to prevent clot growth and reduce the risk of complications. It includes the use of anticoagulant medications or direct factor Xa inhibitors.

In severe cases, administration of thrombolytics may be required to dissolve the clot, a procedure that carries the risk of bleeding. In specific situations, such as very large clots or when medication is not effective, surgical intervention may be considered to remove or bypass the clot.

The importance of education about the symptoms and risk factors of thrombosis cannot be underestimated. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications associated with this condition. Collaboration between patients, families and health professionals is key to an effective thrombosis prevention and management strategy.

FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: Test tubes are seen in front of a displayed AstraZeneca logo in this illustration taken, May 21, 2021. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo/File Photo

It was also recently announced that AstraZeneca revealed that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in collaboration with the University of Oxford, could be associated with thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), although the pharmaceutical company emphasizes that this adverse effect is extremely queer. This situation came to light in the context of a class action lawsuit by individuals who suffered severe side effects after inoculation.

It should be noted that this vaccine was one of those that the Government of Mexico applied to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing significantly to the national immunization campaign; however, the new revelations have unleashed doubts among the population.

Thrombosis with thrombocytopenia (TTS) is a rare but serious disorder characterized by the formation of unusual blood clots in combination with a low level of platelets, which are blood components essential for clotting.

TTS involves the formation of clots in parts of the body where they usually do not form, such as in the brain (resulting in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis) or in the abdomen.

Symptoms may include severe headache, vision problems, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or chest pain among others. Its treatment is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach that may include medications that prevent clots from forming and treatments to increase platelet counts.