When a clot—typically a blood clot—becomes lodged in a lung artery, it causes a pulmonary embolism (PE). This may damage the lungs and obstruct blood flow. PE is a dangerous condition that may be fatal. If there is a chance that one may have PE, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms and get treatment right away. The causes, signs, and treatments of a pulmonary embolism are all covered in this article.

What are the causes of pulmonary embolism?

There are several ways that PE can occur. One is when a blood clot forms in a different body part (usually the leg) and then travels to the lungs. This is known as an “embolus.”

Another way is when there is a blockage in one of the arteries that supply blood to the lungs (known as an “arterial thromboembolism”). A PE can also occur when there’s damage to the lung tissue (known as a “pulmonary infarction”).

Another major cause of PE is vein injuries caused by surgery, childbirth, or trauma sustained during an accident or fight. When these types of injuries occur, large amounts of blood flow into the injured area, resulting in a blood clot.

Finally, one-third of all cases of PE are due to an abnormal accumulation of blood in a particular limb – typically the arm or leg – because those areas have more veins than other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of pulmonary embolism?

The symptoms of PE vary depending on where the blockage is located in the lung.

Shortness of breath

This may be mild or severe and may occur at any time during the illness. It’s essential to keep track of one’s breathing patterns so one can identify any changes that might indicate PE is developing.

Rapid heartbeat

The heart rate may increase rapidly even when one is not exerting themself physically, and it may feel like the chest feels tight or full.

Excessive sweating

A person may experience excessive sweating all over the body, especially around the face and neck. One may also have trouble urinating because one is producing too much sweat.

How to prevent pulmonary embolism?

Some tips to help prevent pulmonary embolism:

Getting cholesterol checked regularly

High cholesterol is one of the most common causes of pulmonary embolism.

Avoid prolonged bed rest

Sleeping in an upright position reduces the threat of developing a blood clot in the leg while asleep.

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise helps reduce inflammation and improves circulation throughout the body.

Eat healthy meals

Eating foods high in fiber can help reduce the likelihood of forming clots due to constipation or other bowel problems.

Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism

The first step is a pulmonary angiogram. This test uses X-rays to view the blood vessels in the lungs.

Next, a leg ultrasound may be necessary to rule out other causes for the symptoms, such as fractures or DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

MRI and CT scans may also be used if there is suspicion that PE is involved.

Blood tests may also be conducted to look for evidence of emboli (blood clots) in other body parts.

How is a pulmonary embolism treated?

Treatment for PE typically involves one or more of the following:

Thrombolytic therapy is the most common and effective treatment for PE, and it involves breaking up the clot causing the obstruction.

Compression stockings help to reduce swelling and pain, while PT-INR tests determine how well the blood is flowing and help one adjust the treatment accordingly.

Anti-Xa treatments stop the formation of new clots, and if all else fails, surgery may be necessary to remove the clot.