Blood clotting is a vital process that stops bleeding after injury by forming a stable clot. It involves a complex interaction of platelets and clotting factors.
Blood clotting, or coagulation, is a complex physiological process crucial for preventing excessive bleeding following blood vessel injury. It involves a cascade of enzymatic reactions involving platelets, clotting factors (proteins in the blood), and the damaged vessel wall. Platelets adhere to the injury site forming a temporary plug. The coagulation cascade activates, forming a fibrin mesh that reinforces the platelet plug, creating a stable clot. This seals the vessel and prevents further blood loss. Deficiencies in clotting factors or impaired platelet function can cause bleeding disorders. Excessive clotting can lead to thrombosis, stroke, or heart attack. Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of several clotting factors.