What is a blood clot?
Blood moves inside your body like a little river. A blood clot is a sticky lump that can form in that river. It can be helpful when you get a cut because it stops bleeding, but sometimes it can form inside where it shouldn't.
Why a clot can be dangerous
- If a clot blocks the river, the part of your body past the block can’t get the air and food in the blood it needs, and that part can get hurt.
- If a clot goes to the brain, it can make it hard to talk or move one side of your body.
- If a clot goes to the heart, it can make your chest hurt and make you feel very sick.
- If a clot gets to the lungs, it can make it hard to breathe.
What to do if you think something is wrong
- If you feel suddenly very different — like you can’t talk right, can’t move part of your body, have big trouble breathing, or very bad chest pain or headache — tell a grown-up right away.
- Always tell a parent, teacher, or nurse if you feel strange or very painful somewhere.
- Grown-ups and doctors know how to help and can get medicine or help to make you better.
Remember
Most bumps and bruises are not blood clots. You don’t need to worry about every little ouch. The best thing is to always tell a grown-up when something feels wrong so they can help you.