Blood Clots: The Silent Killer You Need To Watch – Causes, Signs & Prevention

By Spy Uganda

Blood clots, medically known as thrombi, are fast becoming one of the most underreported yet deadly health threats globally. Often developing silently, these clots can block blood flow to vital organs, leading to life-threatening conditions such as stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism.

Despite medical advancements, awareness about blood clots remains alarmingly low. Health experts warn that without timely diagnosis and intervention, what seems like a minor health issue could quickly become fatal.

Understanding Blood Clots

Blood clots are gel-like clumps of blood that form in response to injury, but sometimes they form without any visible cause. They can occur in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis). While clotting is a natural defense mechanism to prevent excessive bleeding, abnormal clots can obstruct circulation, leading to severe complications.

Major Causes & Risk Factors

Several risk factors contribute to the development of blood clots, including:

• Prolonged immobility (such as during long flights or bed rest)
• Surgery or trauma
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Cancer and certain cancer treatments
• Pregnancy and hormonal birth control
• Genetic clotting disorders
• COVID-19 infections, which have also been linked to increased clotting risks

A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity are particularly concerning, especially as remote work and screen time increase globally.

Warning Signs To Watch

Many people may not recognise the symptoms until it’s too late. Common signs include:

• Swelling, pain, or tenderness (usually in the leg)
• Skin discoloration
• Shortness of breath or chest pain (a sign of pulmonary embolism)
• Sudden weakness or numbness (stroke symptom)
• Rapid heartbeat

“If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately,” advises Dr. Kamya.

Prevention: Small Steps, Big Impact

The good news is that blood clots are largely preventable. Here are practical steps individuals can take:

• Stay Active: Move regularly, especially during travel or sedentary workdays.
• Hydrate: Drinking enough water supports healthy blood flow.
• Avoid smoking: Tobacco damages blood vessels, increasing clot risk.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity significantly raises the risk.
• Wear compression stockings: Especially for those at risk or post-surgery.
• Follow medical advice: For those with a history of clots, anticoagulant medications may be prescribed.

What’s Being Done

Globally, health organizations like the World Thrombosis Day campaign are working to increase public awareness. In Uganda and other developing nations, however, limited access to diagnostic tools and specialists remains a challenge.

Health ministries are being urged to invest in public health education and improve screening in primary care facilities.

Blood clots might not make daily headlines, but their impact is deeply felt across communities and healthcare systems. Increased awareness, lifestyle changes, and access to timely care can make a life-saving difference.