If our platelets form clots excessively or at the wrong time, the clot can block an important blood vessel.
This is called thrombosis. Thrombosis can happen in arteries or veins.

Thrombosis in the arteries of your heart can cause a heart attack. Anti-platelet drugs are commonly given to try to prevent this happening. Examples of commonly-used anti-platelet drugs include aspirin and clopidogrel. These and other drugs are available as a result of research into platelet-related diseases such as thrombosis.

Despite this progress, many people still suffer from heart attacks. This is one reason why The Platelet Society supports new and ongoing research into platelet-related diseases.