Our grateful thanks to Thrombosis UK for their contribution to our radio report which you can hear again at the bottom of this page.
Thrombosis: Know the Signs, Save Lives. Thrombosis is a serious but often overlooked condition. It happens when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel, blocking the normal flow of blood through the body. While blood clots can be life-saving when they stop bleeding, clots that form inside veins or arteries can be dangerous — even fatal.
Despite this, public awareness of thrombosis remains low. Many people don’t recognise the warning signs, and that delay can have serious consequences.
What is thrombosis? Thrombosis occurs when blood thickens and forms a clot inside a blood vessel. There are two main types:
Together, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE).
But blood clots can also form in arteries - and this is where the risks can become even more serious.
Blood clots, stroke and heart attack. When a blood clot forms in an artery, it can block the supply of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs.
Both conditions are medical emergencies and can lead to long-term disability or death.
Signs of a stroke can include:
Signs of a heart attack can include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Acting fast can save brain function, heart muscle - and lives.
Why it matters. Thrombosis can affect anyone. It is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, yet many cases are preventable. Long periods of immobility - such as during long-haul travel, hospital stays, or recovery from surgery — can increase your risk.
Other risk factors include:
The hidden risk: blood clots in hospital. Many people don’t realise that being in hospital itself can increase the risk of developing a blood clot.
When you’re unwell or recovering from surgery, you’re often less mobile. Blood flow slows down, particularly in the legs, which can allow clots to form. Some medical treatments and conditions can also make the blood more likely to clot.
In fact, hospital-associated thrombosis is one of the most common preventable causes of death in healthcare settings.
The risk doesn’t end when you leave hospital. Blood clots can develop days or even weeks after discharge, which is why it’s so important to stay alert to symptoms once you’re home.
Healthcare teams routinely assess patients for clot risk and may offer preventative measures such as:
If you’re going into hospital, don’t be afraid to ask: “What is my risk of developing a blood clot, and how can it be reduced?”
Spot the signs: don’t ignore symptoms. Recognising the symptoms early can save your life or the life of someone you love.
Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
Signs of a Pulmonary Embolism (PE):
If you experience symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Prevention: small steps, big difference. There are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Why awareness is key. One of the biggest challenges with thrombosis is that symptoms can be mistaken for less serious conditions — like muscle strain or fatigue. That’s why awareness is so important.
Knowing the signs means acting faster. Acting faster can save lives.
When to get help. If you suspect a blood clot, don’t wait. Contact a healthcare professional urgently. If symptoms are severe - especially chest pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of a stroke - call emergency services immediately.
Thrombosis can lead to life-threatening conditions like stroke, heart attack and pulmonary embolism. But many cases are preventable - and early action saves lives.Help spread the word - it could make all the difference.
Listen to this weeks radio report
All material on this website is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being.
