A blood clot in one of your arteries can cause a condition called arterial thrombosis, which is a serious health problem. It can block the flow of blood to part of your heart (coronary artery occlusion) or to your brain (stroke).
The symptoms that can develop from arterial thrombosis depend on where the clot is in your body and how long it’s been there. If the clot blocks an artery to your heart, you may experience chest pain and shortness of breath.
Symptoms that can occur from an artery that is blocked in your legs include pain and coldness in the affected limb. A sudden, complete blockage of a leg artery can result in loss of sensation and paralysis of the limb, which is a medical emergency.
Some clots that form in your arteries can break off and travel through your bloodstream, where they’re known as embolus. These clots can block arteries in other parts of your body, such as the left ventricle of your heart or an artery in your neck, causing a stroke or other serious problems.
Your doctor can diagnose arterial occlusion by performing a physical exam and reviewing your medical history. They may use a device called an ankle-brachial index to measure your blood pressure in your arm and ankle. They also may take a blood sample to check for blood clots or other signs of a heart or vascular disorder.
They may also ask you to sit or stand for a period of time and then test your pulse. They can also use an instrument to detect if you have any fluid buildup in your eyes.
The doctor can then use an X-ray to look at the area where your arteries are blocked. If they see any damage to your arteries, they may recommend treatment.
If the clot is caused by a condition such as atherosclerosis, your doctor may prescribe medicine to help dissolve the clots. Or they can use an invasive procedure to clear the blocked artery or repair it.
A doctor may be able to see the blocked artery by using an X-ray or an ultrasound scan of your arteries. They can also use a special type of MRI to look at the blood flow in your arteries and to see where any clots are.
You may be given medication to help dissolve any clots that are in your bloodstream, as well as to prevent them from forming again. Your doctor can also help you with lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of blood clots in the future.
A doctor can also use a procedure called angiography to look at your arteries. They can do this by inserting a tiny camera into your arteries and taking pictures of the insides of the arteries. They can also use a machine called an ultrasound duplex scanner to look at the inside of your arteries and to see where any arteries are blocked.
