A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that blocks an artery in your lungs, preventing the blood from following its normal path. If you or a loved one has had a pulmonary embolism, you understand the severity of the medical condition ― PE can cause lung damage and reduce oxygen levels in the body.
Usually, this type of clot starts in a vein deep in the legs when a person does not move sufficiently ― as demonstrated on long flights or during assigned medical bed rests.
When these blood clots form, doctors refer to the condition as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). If the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it is then referred to as a Pulmonary Embolism, or PE.
Pulmonary Embolism symptoms vary based on the size and location of the clot but generally include:
The best way to prevent a Pulmonary Embolism may be to watch for the signs of deep vein thrombosis. Those include:
If your vein doctor suspects a PE, he or she will start with a physical examination, looking for swelling, discoloration, or unusual warmth to the touch. A variety of diagnostic tests may be used as well, including ultrasounds, x-rays, and blood tests. If a clot has been present but has since broken down, a blood test can pick up a protein called D dimer. Other common steps in the examination may include:
Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, are the most common treatment for pulmonary embolism. Warfarin and heparin are the two most common. Warfarin is taken orally in pill form to treat and prevent blood clots, whereas heparin is given intravenously or by injection, keeping future clots from developing.
Anticoagulants do not dissolve any clots already present; typically, the body does that on its own over time. Anticoagulants do serve two important purposes, however, they keep the embolism from getting any larger and prevent any new clots from forming. These treatments are given in the hospital, and how long you have to stay depends on the severity of your condition.
According to the National Library of Medicine, the death rate after pulmonary embolism is less than 5% during 3-6 months of anticoagulant treatment, provided that the patient is hemodynamically stable and free of major underlying disease.
Most people make a full recovery after a pulmonary embolism, but some may experience long-term symptoms or may present further complications months later. This is due to the fact that a large clot in the pulmonary arteries may strain the heart, lower oxygen levels, and ultimately lead to cardiovascular complications. According to a 2021 study, short-term (or 30-day) mortality rates with PE are as high as 18%.
A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency, so if you experience any of these signs and symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Gilvydis Vein Clinic vein doctors aim to ensure individuals know what to look for, providing better help for themselves or someone else developing this problem.
We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.
We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.