The formation of blood clots is a normal and necessary function of the circulatory system. Blood clots are the body's way of patching a hole in a damaged blood vessel. If a blood clot should become dislodged and float through the bloodstream, however, it could become a serious health issue, resulting in heart attack, stroke or even death.
The Main Artery
Arteries are the veins that carry blood away from the heart, according to National Heart Blood and Lung Institute. Humans have two carotid arteries, one located on each side of the neck, that provide blood to the brain. These carotid arteries originate from the main artery coming out of the heart, the aortic arch, as described by the UK-based Gloucestershire Vascular Group. The blood contained in this system goes directly from the heart to the brain.
Definition of a Blood Clot
A blood clot prevents excessive bleeding by plugging the hole in a ruptured vein or artery. The American Society of Hematology says that arterial clots are usually caused by atherosclerosis, commonly known as hardening of the arteries. It results from narrowing of the arteries caused by plaque build-up. As the artery narrows, pressure within the artery increases, and this can cause some of the plaque to dislodge. The body, reacting as if the artery had been punctured, mistakenly produces an unnecessary clot in the main artery. Since there is no hole for the clot to adhere itself to, the clot may flow freely in the bloodstream.
Consequences
The consequences of a blood clot loose in the main artery are serious. Strokes and heart attacks are life-threatening results of blood clots. A heart attack can happen if this blood clot gets lodged in the heart. A stroke occurs when a blood clot plugs an artery, and blood cannot flow to the brain. According to the National Stroke Association, strokes are the third leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability among Americans.
Prognosis
Depending on the magnitude of the stroke or heart attack, many people do survive. Merck Manuals Online Medical Library states that 10 percent of people who suffer this type of stroke recover almost completely, regaining most of the normal body functions with no paralysis. Other stroke victims may experience paralysis on one or both sides of their body. Unfortunately, another 20 percent of people who have a stroke die in the hospital.
Prevention
Because the formation of blood clots is necessary and healthy, a person cannot prevent blood clots from forming. There are many things, however, he can do to prevent atherosclerosis, which may lead to the unnecessary production of blood clots and subsequent problems such as heart attack or stroke. Smoking cessation, weight control, a healthy diet and exercise are the most effective tools against plaque buildup in the arteries, which leads to blood clots being produced in the main artery.
