What do blood clots have to do with pulmonary hypertension?

October 13 is World Thrombosis Day

A thrombosis is a blood clot inside a blood vessel, and October 13 is World Thrombosis Day, a global campaign to raise awareness of blood clots and their risk factors. This year’s campaign highlights women’s blood clot risks throughout life, including those associated with hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopause.

Blood clots can have serious consequences, including pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a clot blocks blood flow in the lungs. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism may include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat and/or coughing.

Who is at risk?

Anyone can have a blood clot, but certain things increase the chance of a clot, including:

• Increased estrogen from pregnancy, hormonal birth control, or hormone replacement therapy

• Injury to a vein, whether from a bone fracture, muscle injury, or surgery

• Heart disease or lung disease

• Older age

• A catheter in a central vein.

Did you know that blood clots can lead to pulmonary hypertension?

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), also known as Group 4 pulmonary hypertension, develops when blood clots in the lungs do not dissolve completely. CTEPH can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and swelling in the legs. Over time, these clots can leave behind scar tissue that narrows or blocks blood vessels. This restricts blood flow, raises pressure in the lungs, and forces the right side of the heart to work harder.

CTEPH symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, making awareness and timely diagnosis important. While many people with CTEPH have a known history of pulmonary embolism, some have never actually been diagnosed with one.

World Thrombosis Day is an opportunity to learn about blood clots, recognize the risks, and start conversations with health care professionals.

Have you had a pulmonary embolism? Talk to your health care provider about CTEPH screening, especially if you continue to experience shortness of breath or other symptoms. Early recognition can help you access appropriate treatment.