What is an embolism?

An embolism refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel by a substance, most commonly a blood clot that has migrated from another site in the body. When a clot forms, it may dislodge and travel through the bloodstream, eventually lodging in a smaller vessel, thereby blocking blood flow. This can lead to serious health complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism, depending on where the obstruction occurs. The understanding of embolisms is crucial in medical contexts, as they can have life-threatening implications if not treated promptly.

In this scenario, the term "embolism" specifically highlights the role of blood clots as a leading cause of this condition, differentiating it from other medical occurrences such as heart inflammation, muscle spasms, or issues related to low blood sugar, which do not pertain to the obstruction of blood vessels.