Why Do Blood Clots Form?
Transcript
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It's Dr Andrew again. It's Blood Clot Awareness Month. Here's what you need to know. Day two of 31: why do blood clots form?
Blood clots usually develop because of three main factors, something called Virchow's triad. First, slow blood flow. This can happen after major or complex surgery, during long-haul flights with prolonged immobility, or even with dehydration. Second, blood that is more prone to clotting. We see this in cancer, pregnancy, smoking and with certain medications. And third, injury to the lining of the blood vessel, which can occur with trauma, inflammation or surgical procedures.
Most clots occur when there is a derangement in one or more elements of this triad. Blood clots can be life-threatening, but treatable if caught early. Know the signs. Act fast. Stop the clot.
About this video
Dr Andrew Choong explains Virchow’s triad: slow blood flow, a greater tendency to clot and injury to the vessel lining. He relates these three factors to situations such as surgery, immobility and other blood clot risks.
Read the accompanying article for the written explanation and further context.
Related patient information
For an individual assessment or second opinion, contact Andrew Choong Vascular Surgery at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, #09-22, 38 Irrawaddy Road, Singapore 329563.
This video provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. For a medical emergency in Singapore, call 995.
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