What Are Blood Clots?
Learn how clots form, the risks they carry and why awareness matters.
Blood clots are a natural part of the body’s healing process, helping to stop bleeding after an injury. But when clots form in the wrong place or don’t dissolve as they should, they can become dangerous and even life-threatening. This page explains what blood clots are, how they develop and the risks they pose to health. Building understanding is the first step in recognising the importance of early detection and treatment.
What is VTE?
Venous Thrombo-Embolism (VTE)
VTE is a collective term for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolus (PE) which are both conditions involving blood clots.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
DVT is a common medical condition that happens when a thrombus (blood clot) forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg or pelvis, leading to either partially or completely blocked circulation. It is estimated that about 1 in every 1,000 people have a DVT each year . Symptoms include swelling of the calf or thigh, usually with some pain, and possibly redness of the calf.
A DVT is not a serious condition, however it can cause a serious problem known as pulmonary embolus (PE). Some people can suffer long-term discomfort and ankle swelling following a DVT – this is called post-thrombotic syndrome.
What is Pulmonary Embolus (PE)?
If the clot in the leg breaks off and travels to the lungs, it will cause pulmonary embolus (PE). PE may result in breathing difficulties and could even be fatal.
Signs of a PE are:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain which is worse when breathing in
- unexplained difficulty in breathing
- coughing up blood
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical help from your Doctor or the nearest Emergency Department.
Signs and Symptoms
Learn how to spot the early warning signs of blood clots so you can act fast.
Prevention Tips
Simple lifestyle changes and habits that lower your risk of developing clots.
Treatment Options
Explore the medical treatments and therapies that help manage and dissolve clots.
Recovery & Healthy Living
Guidance for healing after a clot and maintaining long-term wellness with smart lifestyle choices.