Coágulo

Coágulo is a Portuguese word that translates to "clot" in English. It refers to a mass of blood that has changed from a liquid to a solid state. This process, known as coagulation or clotting, is a vital defense mechanism of the body. When a blood vessel is injured, clotting prevents excessive bleeding. Platelets, a type of blood cell, gather at the site of injury and form a temporary plug. Then, a complex cascade of proteins, called clotting factors, work together to form a fibrin mesh that reinforces the platelet plug, creating a stable clot.

While essential for hemostasis (stopping bleeding), blood clots can also cause problems. If a clot forms in a blood vessel without an injury, or if it becomes too large, it can obstruct blood flow. This can lead to serious health conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs. If a clot from a DVT breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition. Clots can also form in arteries, leading to strokes or heart attacks if they block blood flow to the brain or heart, respectively. Medical conditions and certain medications can increase the risk of abnormal clot formation.