This is a dangerous condition that can affect multiple organs, causing organ damage and even death.
As such, it requires immediate treatment.
It also explains how thromboembolism is diagnosed and the different options used to treat blockages in arteries and veins.
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Types of Blockages
There are two main categories of thromboembolismvenous and arterial.
As their names suggest, they are differentiated by the types of blood vessels they affect.
Venous thromboembolism often starts in the legs with a condition known asdeep vein thrombosis (DVT).
With that said, thromboembolism can involve other veins of the body, both deep and superficial.
Less common sites of venous thromboembolism include the arms, liver, kidneys, and brain.
This causesischemia, or the restriction of blood flow and oxygen.
Sometimes, infarctiontissue death due to an inadequate blood supplyalso occurs.
Arterial thromboembolism often occurs in the legs and feet.
Less common sites include the kidneys, intestines, and eyes.
The symptoms of a venous obstruction can differ from those of an arterial obstruction.
Why Venous Thromboembolism Occurs
Almost anyone can have DVT and, by association, pulmonary embolism.
There are risk factors for DVT/PE you might change or control and others you cannot.
Risk factors for arterial thromboembolism are largely the same as for heart disease.
Obesity and older age contribute to both.
Some tests are organ-specific.
Others are specialized and specific.
Medications are central to any plan.
These drugs prevent a clot from becoming larger while the body slowly reabsorbs it.
Drugs calledthrombolytics(“clot busters”) are reserved for severe cases, as they can cause bleeding.
Some people may require surgery if the blockage is severe.
This may involve:
Anticoagulants (blood thinners) play a central role in the treatment of thromboembolism.
In severe cases, a surgical procedure known as embolectomy may be needed to remove the clot.
Bypass surgery or angioplasty may also be needed to treat or repair an arterial blockage.
Symptoms of thromboembolism vary by the location of the blockage.
Venous thromboembolism often occurs in the legs and lungs, causing deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, respectively.
Arterial embolism can prevent blood flow to the brain or heart, triggering a stroke or heart attack.
Thromboembolism can be often diagnosed with a combination of blood tests and imaging studies.
A Word From Verywell
Thromboembolism is almost invariably serious, requiring immediate medical attention.
Arguably, the biggest challenge is recognizing the signs and acting quickly.
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