What Exactly Is a Blood Clot?

As people age, their bodily functions gradually deteriorate, leading to a significantly increased risk of geriatric diseases. Common examples of such diseases include diabetes and hypertension, which can have significant harmful effects on the body. Therefore, it is essential for the elderly to take these diseases seriously.

Some elderly individuals may even be diagnosed with blood clot issues. But what exactly are blood clots? Blood clots are small plaques that can form on the inner surfaces of blood vessels throughout the body. They are primarily composed of insoluble fibrin, deposited platelets, accumulated white blood cells, and entrapped red blood cells. Blood clots often occur on damaged vascular surfaces and can be classified as white thrombi, mixed thrombi, red thrombi, and transparent thrombi. Small blood clots can be completely dissolved and absorbed, while larger ones may be partially dissolved and softened. Later, they may be repaired by granulation tissue or undergo calcium salt deposition.

The most significant hazard of blood clot formation is the detachment of the clot and its migration to vital organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs.

1. People who do not drink enough water

Not drinking enough water throughout the day can be dangerous, especially for individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia. Insufficient water intake can lead to increased blood viscosity and slowed metabolism, which can easily trigger cerebral thrombosis and myocardial infarction. Therefore, it is crucial for people with these "three highs" to ensure adequate water intake. Even individuals without these conditions should drink enough water to maintain normal bodily functions such as metabolism and blood circulation.

2. People with unhealthy dietary habits

Frequent consumption of high-fat and high-calorie foods, such as fried foods and fatty pork, can increase the risk of blood clots. These foods tend to further elevate blood lipid levels and make the blood viscous, leading to the formation of blood clots.

3. People who lack exercise

Sedentary lifestyles with poor blood circulation and slowed metabolism can increase the risk of blood clots. Retired individuals who spend most of their day sitting and watching television are particularly susceptible to venous thrombosis. Young professionals should also be mindful of this and take regular breaks to move and stretch, keeping their blood vessels unobstructed and preventing the formation of blood clots.

4. People with negative emotions

Individuals who experience suppressed, angry, or uncontrolled emotions, or who are under chronic stress without adequate coping mechanisms, are prone to cerebral thrombosis. These negative emotions can lead to dysregulation of vascular nerves, thereby increasing the risk of blood clot formation.