How dangerous is a blood clot in the heart?

[Harvey Gainer]

My Father-in-law is a 70 year old white non-smoker.  With a history of diabetes, no history of high blood pressure.  Recently hospitalized with Pneumonia RT lung, diagnosis  was suspected heart attack.  later changed to suspected stroke with another possible within 48 hours.  Then changed to small tumor in heart attached to back wall. (Heart Echo)  Then changed to blood clot in small pocket in heart.  Currently on blood thinners to help dissolve clot.

Help?   He is at Upson County Hospital, Thomaston, Georgia.  Is under care of Internal Medicine Doctor.  I am worried about this clot.  Can more be done than just treatement with blood thinners?

Does this man need a Cardiologist?

Thanks,

Harvey Gainer

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Dear Harvey,

It is possible for blood clots to develop in the heart chambers if atrial fibrillation is present or if there is an area of non-functioning heart tissue.  Generally the treatment for these is blood thinners.  Surgery can be done but only in extreme situations.  Usually doctors in a smaller hospital are willing to transfer complex cases to a tertiary care center such as a university hospital if the family requests the change.  Oftentimes this is beneficial to the patient.  There are downsides as well such as additional strain on the family in traveling, less personalized care, etc.  Ultimately the decision is up to your father, your family and his doctors.

[sjat]

A related discussion, clots in heart was started.

[lyndahmr]

A related discussion, How serious is a blood clot in the heart? was started.

[JIM SITHERS]

DEAR DOCTOR:
             MY FRIENDS MOTHER HAD ABLOOD CLOT IN HER HEART THEY ARE GIVING HER BLOOD THINNERS AT THIS TIME. THEY HAVE PLACED A FEEDING TUBE IN HER STOMACH BECAUSE SHE HAS TROUBLE SWALLOWING,HER EYES ARE ALSO CLOSED SHE IS NOT THAT RESPONSIVE THIS JUST HAPPEND 1 WEEK AGO SHE HAS TAKEN 2 STROKES SINCE SHE HAS BEEN IN THE HOSPITAL.I KNOW IT IS HARD TO SAY BUT WHAT DUE YOU THINK THE PROGNOSIS IS COMPARED TO HAVING A CLOT IN THE MAIN ARTERY GOING TO THE BRAIN? ANY INFORMATION IS GREATLY APPRECIATED
  

                          THANK YOU
                            JIMM