What is a blood clot? How do blood clots form?

1 Answer
Nov 29, 2015

Blood clots are clumps that occur when blood hardens from a liquid to a solid

Explanation:

Situations in which a blood clot is more likely to form include:

Being on long-term bed rest
Crossing your legs for long periods when sitting, or sitting for long periods, such as in a plane or car
During and after pregnancy
Not having enough water in your body (dehydration)
Taking birth control pills or oestrogen hormones (especially in women who smoke)
Long-term use of an intravenous catheter
Blood clots are also more likely in people with cancer, recent surgery or injury, obesity, and liver or kidney disease.

A build up of cholesterol that narrows an artery may change or slow the flow of blood, making it easier for a blood clot .