Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Bleeding Disorders
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bleeding disorders include a wide range of medical problems that lead to poor blood clotting and excessive bleeding.
What is going on in the body?
Blood clotting occurs when blood changes from a liquid to a semisolid state. Normal blood clotting should occur after trauma that causes bleeding. Within seconds of an injury, tiny cells in the blood, called platelets, bunch together at the site of the wound. Blood proteins, platelets, calcium, and other tissue factors react together and form what is called a clot. A clot acts like a net over the wound. Over the next several days to weeks, the clot strengthens, then dissolves when the wound is healed.
Bleeding disorders occur when the blood cannot clot normally. These disorders can be present at birth or be acquired from other conditions.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
There are many causes of bleeding disorders. Some examples of causes include: