Arterial thrombosis and embolism are two conditions involving the formation of clots in the arteries. Arterial thrombosis occurs when a clot forms in an artery, blocking the flow of blood. Embolism occurs when a clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in an artery, blocking the flow of blood. Both conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and certain medications.
The most common cause of arterial thrombosis is atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the walls of the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. These deposits can eventually form a clot and block the flow of blood.
High cholesterol is another leading cause of arterial thrombosis. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can cause plaque to build up in the arteries, narrowing them and making them more prone to clotting.
Smoking is also a major risk factor for arterial thrombosis. Smoking increases the risk of developing plaque in the arteries, which can in turn lead to the formation of a clot.
Diabetes is another risk factor for arterial thrombosis. Diabetes can cause damage to the arteries, making them more vulnerable to clotting.
Obesity is also a risk factor for arterial thrombosis. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing high cholesterol and diabetes, both of which can increase the risk of clot formation.
High blood pressure is also a risk factor for arterial thrombosis. High blood pressure can damage the walls of the arteries, making them more prone to clotting.
Heart attack and stroke are two other potential causes of arterial thrombosis. Damage to the arteries caused by a heart attack or stroke can increase the risk of clot formation.
Certain medications can also increase the risk of arterial thrombosis. Certain blood thinners, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapies can all increase the risk of clot formation.
Embolism occurs when a clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in an artery, blocking the flow of blood. This can be caused by the same factors that can lead to the formation of a clot in an artery, such as atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity