The COVID-19 pandemic has not only brought us death and despair but also numerous post-pandemic health challenges, one of which is the formation of microclots in the blood vessels. These small COVID microclots, also called microthrombi, have been reported in several autopsy reports of COVID-19 Patients. These Long COVID microclots have been connected to many complications and long-term health issues. This article will provide an overview of the science behind COVID microclots, their formation, treatment, and impact on overall health.
What are COVID Microclots?
COVID microclots are minute blood clots formed in the blood vessels. The leading cause of its formation is our body’s immune response to the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2). These clots can be very discomforting, obstructing blood flow and harming various organ tissues, leading to significant health complications.
Formation of Long COVID Microclots
So, How are these Clots formed? Covid microclot formation is a complex process that involves various factors. When the SARS-CoV-2 virus attacks the body, it gets detected by our body. It then triggers an inflammatory response in our body. Hence, the blood clotting system is activated. As a result, the response can lead to an overproduction of clotting factors, which leads to platelets accumulating and forming microclots.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Microclots may vary in each individual. Still, common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain and upper body pain, confusion, nausea, fatigue, and, in severe cases, it can lead to organ damage.
Some people with COVID microclots may experience pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs). It may also have severe effects on the heart, brain, and other parts of the body.
What Are the COVID Microclot’s Effects On Health?
COVID microclots can have numerous damaging effects on health:
- They may block blood flow in blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply. If there is a reduction in oxygen supply to organs and tissues. It can result in multiple organ failure.
- It is known to cause stroke or even death in some cases.
- The COVID microclots can also cause long-term health issues, such as exhaustion, inflammation, and other problems related to Long Covid.
How Can We Provide Effective Medical Care?
- If you know someone suspected to have long Covid microclots, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance and diagnosis. Here are some measures you can follow:
- Please consult with your primary healthcare professional. Visit your physician and share your symptoms and health concerns with them. They will thoroughly examine you, suggest proper precautions, and order necessary tests.
- Doing regular Blood Tests: If you have doubts, you can inform your doctor about the possibility of long Covid microclots and ask for blood tests to check for them. This can give you clarity about the indication of the presence of clots.
What are the Preventive Measures?
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to avoiding and minimizing the risk of contracting Covid microclots. Individuals should manage their stress levels and follow preventive measures like wearing masks and social distancing.
- For patients already affected by COVID microclots, early intervention with anticoagulant medications can help dissolve existing clots and prevent further formation.
- The main goal of COVID microclot management is to first provide symptomatic relief and then address other specific complications.
- Some rehabilitation centres provide services like physical therapy and cognitive rehabilitation. A few healthcare centres also provide microclot testing for Long COVID Microclots. These tests may prove helpful in managing the symptoms.
Closing In!
Researchers are still trying to understand the mechanism of COVID-19 microclots. People who have been infected with COVID-19 in the past should visit healthcare professionals regularly to keep track of their symptoms. Understanding the science behind Covid microclots is important for everyone. Educating yourselves about it and taking necessary measures to prevent it is the need of the hour. As responsible citizens, we must stay informed about the latest advancements in this field to ensure favourable outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1- Why does COVID-19 cause clots?
Ans. The main cause of blood clot formation in COVID-19 patients is SARS-CoV-2 infection, which causes a high level of inflammation that leads to microclotting.
Q.2- What dissolves blood clots fast?
Ans.- Blood thinners are used to dissolve at a faster pace. There are several medicines called anticoagulants that may help dissolve blood clots. Some of the anticoagulants are Rivaroxaban, apixaban, heparin, warfarin, dabigatran
Q.3- Can you live normally after a Deep Vein thrombosis?
Ans.- Yes, it may be discomforting to function properly while you are still going through the process, but you can go back to your normal life after treatment.
Q.4- What are the signs of blood clots?
Ans.- Some common signs of blood clots are: you can feel swelling and tenderness in your limbs, sudden chest aches, breathing difficulties, nausea, sweating, and blurred vision.
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