Why doesn't blood dry inside our bodies?

In summary, when we get a cut or scrap, blood comes out and forms a layer of dried blood that gets a darker color. However, blood can also clot inside the body under certain conditions, which can lead to serious medical conditions such as DVT, AFib, PE, and ischemic stroke. To prevent or reduce the risk of internal blood clots, it is recommended to exercise regularly, avoid staying still for long periods of time, move frequently when sitting, and maintain a healthy diet. Anti-coagulants, such as warfarin, can also be used to thin the blood and prevent clots, but should not be self-prescribed. Aspirin can also be used, but in large doses it can cause internal
  • #1
Psinter
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Legit question.

When we get a cut or scrap, blood comes out. In a few moments the blood dries and forms what looks like a layer of dried blood that gets a darker color.

If that happens, why doesn't blood dry inside our bodies?
 
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  • #2
Psinter said:
Legit question.

When we get a cut or scrap, blood comes out. In a few moments the blood dries and forms what looks like a layer of dried blood that gets a darker color.

If that happens, why doesn't blood dry inside our bodies?
Coagulation is a response to a wound. It's not an internal process

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coagulation
 
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  • #3
 
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  • #4
berkeman said:
Actually, blood can and does clot inside the body under certain conditions, and can lead to very bad things happening.
Son of a gun. Didn't know that. Thanks.
 
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  • #5
I deal with those pretty often on my medical shifts, unfortunately.

Quiz Question for @Psinter -- What are some common ways that internal blood clots can be prevented or reduced? :smile:
 
  • #6
berkeman said:
I deal with those pretty often on my medical shifts, unfortunately.

Quiz Question for @Psinter -- What are some common ways that internal blood clots can be prevented or reduced? :smile:
  • Exercise regularly - easy
  • Avoid staying still for long periods of time - easy depending on the situation.
  • Move every now and then when sitting for long periods of time - easy
  • Maintain a healthy diet - hard (somewhat hard for some :-p)
 
  • #7
I don't think blood can dry inside our bodies,the platelets clots when we get a cut.
 
  • #8
Psinter said:
  • Exercise regularly - easy
  • Avoid staying still for long periods of time - easy depending on the situation.
  • Move every now and then when sitting for long periods of time - easy
  • Maintain a healthy diet - hard (somewhat hard for some :-p)
You can read up on anti-coagulants, or blood thinners.
A little bit here, and some conditions.
https://www.webmd.com/dvt/news/2014...ork-instead-of-warfarin-for-deep-vein-clots#1
Note, do not self prescribe.
Aspirin can lead to some internal bleeding with higher doses.
Warfarin is also used as rat poison.

Look what snakes can do to your blood - the blood is not dry, it has coagulated.
http://www.iflscience.com/plants-and-animals/what-does-viper-venom-do-blood/
 
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  • #9
256bits said:
Warfarin is also used as rat poison.
Anything in large enough quantities can be lethal. The point of Warfarin is the thin the blood. Thin it too much and you hemorrhage. Correct doses and it's beneficial.
 
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1. Why doesn't blood dry inside our bodies?

Blood contains several components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. These components work together to maintain the proper consistency of blood, preventing it from drying out. Additionally, our bodies are constantly producing new blood cells to replace old ones, ensuring that there is always enough fluid in our blood to prevent it from drying.

2. How does our body prevent blood from drying out?

Our bodies have a complex system in place to maintain the proper balance of fluids in our blood. This includes the release of hormones that regulate the production of red blood cells and the retention of water in the blood. Additionally, the lining of our blood vessels contains a layer of cells that help prevent blood from clotting and drying out.

3. Can blood ever dry out inside our bodies?

In rare cases, blood can become thick and dry inside our bodies, a condition known as hyperviscosity. This can occur due to certain medical conditions or dehydration. However, our bodies have mechanisms in place to prevent this from happening, and it is not a common occurrence.

4. Is it dangerous to have dry blood inside our bodies?

Yes, having dry blood inside our bodies can be dangerous. It can lead to a variety of health issues, including blood clots, organ damage, and even death. This is why our bodies have systems in place to prevent blood from drying out.

5. Are there any benefits to blood not drying out inside our bodies?

Yes, there are several benefits to blood not drying out inside our bodies. The most significant benefit is that it allows our blood to flow smoothly and deliver oxygen and nutrients to our cells. It also helps maintain proper blood pressure and prevents the formation of blood clots, which can be harmful to our health.

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