Blood Clots Directory
Blood clots happen when substances in the blood clump together as a result of injury to a blood vessel. The substances, called platelets, "plug" the damaged area to prevent blood leakage. Trouble or complications happen when the clot creates a blockage. Clots create other potential problems when bits of them break off and travel to other parts of the body. When clots travel to other parts of the body and cause a blockage, there is the potential for a stroke, clots in lungs (called pulmonary embolism) or clots in the deep veins of the body (called deep vein thrombosis). Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about what causes blood clots, what they look like, how to treat them, and much more.
Medical Reference
How Does High Blood Pressure Raise Stroke Risk?
High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke. WebMD explains the reasons.
Thrombophlebitis Treatments
If you have thrombophlebitis, take heart -- —there are a number of things your doctor can do to treat it. Find out what they are and which ones might be right for you.
What Is Thrombophlebitis? What Causes It?
Thrombophlebitis is a condition that affects your blood circulation. Learn what causes it and who’s at risk.
Combating Heart Disease with Clot Busters
Learn about thrombolytic therapy -- or clot busters -- to treat heart disease.
Features
Could you have Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Swelling, pain, or redness in your leg you could be a symptom of a serious condition called deep vein thrombosis. Find out what causes it, what the possible warning signs are, and whether you need to take action now.
Understanding DVT: An Overview
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a vein deep in your body. Usually it's in a lower leg, thigh, pelvis, or arm.
Slideshows & Images
Stroke: What You Need to Know
Pictures help explain the symptoms, causes, and dramatic lifesaving treatments for stroke -- including when to call 911.
A Visual Guide to Heart Disease
WebMD provides a visual overview of heart disease, including symptoms to watch for, diagnostic tests, treatments, and prevention strategies.
A Visual Guide to Deep Vein Thrombosis
A painful, swollen leg may be one sign of a dangerous clot. This slideshow explains the symptoms, treatments, and prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Living With Deep-Vein Thrombosis
Quizzes
Blood Clot and DVT Quiz
Myths and Facts About Your Heart Health
Do you know how to keep your heart healthy? Take this quiz and find out.
Blood Clots - Your Body's Built-In Bandage
Test your knowledge about how, when, and why blood turns from liquid to solid -- and why it matters.
The Truth About Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Separate fact from fiction. Where and how do these blood clots form? And what can you do to prevent them?