Injuries Associated with Blood Clotting

Blood clotting creates blockages in the circulatory system. These blockages can hinder the normal flow of blood, thereby increasing the risk of heart attack (blood flow to heart is reduced) and stroke (blood flow to the brain is reduced). Blood clotting can also result in the release of a blood clot (embolus) into the circulatory system that can migrate to the lungs - a pulmonary embolism - that can also cause serious injury and death.

Blood clotting abnormalities can lead to heart attack or stroke. In the case of blood clotting abnormalities that affect the heart, the normal flow of blood to the heart is reduced. Consequently, the heart muscle is deprived of an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. Without this adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood, the heart's normal functioning is compromised and a heart attack ensues. A heart attack often leads to damaged heart muscle – that portion of the heart muscle that was deprived of oxygen is unable to function normally.

In the case of blood clotting abnormalities that lead to stroke, the normal flow of blood to the brain is reduced. Consequently, the brain is deprived of an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood which can lead to serious brain damage. Such damage can impair motor, sensory, cognitive and other bodily functions controlled by the brain.

A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that has migrated (traveled) from some distal part of the body (such as the deep veins in the legs) to the lungs. Once lodged in the lungs, the blood clot interferes with the normal exchange of oxygen into the blood thereby substantially increasing the risk of death or serious injury.

If you or a loved one has suffered a heart attack, stroke, sudden cardiac death, or a pulmonary embolism while using the Ortho Evra Patch and have questions about your legal rights, fill out our free case evaluation form.