Arterial thrombosis, also known as arterial occlusion, is a condition in which a thrombus, or blood clot, forms in an artery and restricts or blocks the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the body’s tissues. The major cause of arterial thrombosis is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the lining of an artery, causing the artery to narrow. The narrowing of the artery makes it more difficult for blood to flow through the artery, causing the blood to clot more easily. The formation of a thrombus in the narrowed artery can lead to arterial thrombosis.
Other causes of arterial thrombosis include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, obesity, and genetic predisposition. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can both damage the artery walls, making them more prone to clot formation. Smoking also damages the artery walls, increases blood clotting time, and reduces oxygen in the blood. Diabetes, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and obesity all create an environment in the body which can contribute to the formation of a thrombus. Lastly, some people are genetically predisposed to arterial thrombosis, meaning they are at a higher risk of developing the condition, regardless of their lifestyle choices.
In summary, atherosclerosis is the main cause of arterial thrombosis, but other factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, obesity, and genetic predisposition can also contribute to the condition.