What causes these clots, who is at risk, and how is the condition diagnosed and treated? The death of actor Nana Patekar, 75, has drawn attention to coronary thrombosis, a condition in which a blood clot forms in an artery supplying the heart.
Smoking, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, diabetes, physical inactivity and an unhealthy diet can increase the risk of developing this artery disease. In some cases, a clot may form in an artery affected by other conditions, including inflammation or injury to the blood vessel. Because fatty deposits can build up in their arteries and trigger clot formation if a deposit ruptures, people living with coronary artery disease are at greater risk of coronary thrombosis.
Older age and a family history of heart disease at a younger age are also risk factors. However it can occur even in people who have not been diagnosed with coronary artery disease. The underlying plaque build-up may have gone undetected until it triggers the formation of a clot. Treatment aims to restore blood flow and prevent the clot from growing or new clots from forming. The approach depends on the location and severity of the blockage and the patient’s condition. Doctors may also use antiplatelet medicines, which reduce the tendency of platelets to clump together, and anticoagulants, which interfere with the blood-clotting process. In selected cases, clot-dissolving medicines may be used. Coronary artery bypass surgery may be considered when the pattern of blockage makes it a more suitable option. Preventing further clots involves managing the underlying risk factors and following the prescribed treatment plan. This may include controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, stopping tobacco use, maintaining physical activity appropriate to the person’s condition and taking prescribed medicines.
