"World Thrombosis Day:" Seeks to educate on blood clots that can lead to death

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Monday, October 13th is "World Thrombosis Day."

Thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in an artery or vein. It's a disorder that causes the world's top three cardiovascular killers: heart attack, stroke and the lesser-known venous thromboembolism -- a potentially deadly blood clot in the leg or lungs.

Estimates suggest that between 100,000 and 300,000 Americans die from venous thromboembolism each year.

So what are the symptoms?

"So the warning signs of blood clots in the legs include both swelling and pain and it's mostly in the calf or in the thigh. Blood clots can also break off and travel to the lungs and those signs and symptoms include shortness of breath and pain in your chest -- especially when you take a deep breath," Dr. Lisa Baumann Kreuziger with the BloodCenter of Wisconsin said.

People with a blood clot in the lung need to seek medical attention immediately.

CLICK HERE for additional information via the BloodCenter of Wisconsin's website.