Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot, known as a thrombus, within a blood vessel.
Blood clotting is the body’s first defense against bleeding. When someone is injured, their blood’s clotting system forms a “seal” at the damaged area to protect them from losing too much blood. Once healed, the body normally breaks down the clot.
But sometimes clots don’t form properly or fail to dissolve after an injury. When a blood clot stays in the blood vessel, it is called thrombosis. This prevents the blood from flowing normally through the circulatory system.
If left untreated, a thrombosis can cause long-term problems such as:
- Chronic swelling
- Pain
- Permanent damage to internal organs
What are the signs and symptoms of thrombotic disorders?
- Pain and swelling in one leg
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Numbness on one side of the body
- Redness and warmth in the legs
- Low-grade fever
- In some cases, you may be able to feel the clot under the skin
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What are the signs and symptoms of thrombotic disorders?
Thrombosis in children is uncommon and is usually seen in children with complex medical problems or whom have undergone procedures.
Thrombophilia refers to anything that increases a person’s chance of developing blood clots. Certain genetic conditions can increase this risk. So can certain lifestyle or medical conditions, including:
- Immobility
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Trauma
- Broken bones (fractures)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Smoking
- Medications such as oral contraceptives.
What causes thrombotic disorders?
Thrombosis in children is uncommon and is usually seen in children with complex medical problems or whom have undergone procedures.
Thrombophilia refers to anything that increases a person’s chance of developing blood clots. Certain genetic conditions can increase this risk. So can certain lifestyle or medical conditions, including:
- Immobility
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Trauma
- Broken bones (fractures)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Smoking
- Medications such as oral contraceptives.
How are thrombotic disorders treated?
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for a thrombotic disorder.
Our Hemostasis & Thrombosis Program is a federally funded program that provides compassionate care to children and adults with bleeding disorders and thrombosis. Our pediatric hematologists will work with patients and families to determine the best course of treatment. Often this may mean anticoagulation medications (blood thinners) and extensive monitoring.