Final answer:
It is true that blood clots can form in the atria during atrial fibrillation, leading to a condition called thrombosis. Thrombosis can block blood flow and increase blood pressure, and when clots break free, they become emboli that can cause serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Blood clots in the atria are associated with atrial fibrillation' is true. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots forming in the atria of the heart. These clots can pose a significant risk as they have the potential to travel to other parts of the body and cause a stroke or other serious complications. The condition of excess clot formation is known as thrombosis, which can be exacerbated by various factors including thrombophilia, a condition marked by a tendency to develop thrombosis.
When a thrombus, or blood clot, forms in a vessel, blood flow may be impeded, leading to an increase in local blood pressure. If part of the thrombus breaks free and enters circulation, it becomes an embolus, which can cause blockages further in the circulatory system. This is a potentially life-threatening scenario that requires immediate medical attention.