what happens when a clot reaches the heart
In 1875, blood clots in the heart were found to cause strokes. It was established that blood clots were not only capable of developing in arteries and veins, but inside the heart as well. A blood clot in the heart--also referred to as cardiogenic embolism--can be fatal. Blood clots can travel to the brain, cutting off blood supply and causing a stroke. A stroke coming from a blood clot in the heart is classified as an ischemic stroke. The result is death of brain cells, swelling and subsequent brain damage.