An arterial clot is a mass of coagulated blood that develops within an artery, usually due to atherosclerosis, a narrowing of the artery caused by a buildup of plaque. The clot can cause blockage of the artery, which can lead to a stroke, heart attack, or other serious medical conditions. The medical term for an arterial clot is an arterial thrombus, and it can be either an embolus or a thrombus. An embolus is a clot that forms within an artery and travels through the bloodstream to another part of the body, while a thrombus is a clot that remains in the artery and can cause blockage.
Treatment for an arterial clot depends on the size and location of the clot. If the clot is small and located in a non-vital artery, it may not need to be treated. However, larger clots or those located in vital arteries may require medical intervention to restore blood flow. Treatment may include medications, such as anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, or procedures such as angioplasty or thrombectomy.
It is important to note that arterial clots can be dangerous and should not be ignored. If you experience any symptoms of an arterial clot, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden numbness or tingling in an arm or leg, seek medical attention immediately.