Pulmonary Embolism

DOUGH GOOD
Jan 8
2 min read

The term ‘pulmonary embolism’ refers to a clump of material, most commonly a blood clot, that travels to the lung, blocking blood flow to an artery. These clots typically begin in a deep vein of the leg but can also form in other deep veins throughout the body. The condition is known as a deep vein thrombosis, or DVT.

How is a pulmonary embolism diagnosed?

Some factors may conflict with the diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism, like lung or heart disease. However, the main diagnostic methods are blood tests, chest x-rays, CT pulmonary angiography, pulmonary angiograms, MRIs, ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scans, and ultrasounds.

When diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism, there is a risk of another similar clot forming in the future. It is vital to be aware of this possibility. Continuation of treatments and regularly visiting a healthcare provider decreases the chance of another pulmonary embolism drastically.

Risk factors of pulmonary embolisms

Personal or hereditary history of blood clots
Pregnancy
Heart disease
Supplemental estrogen
Surgery
Smoking
Being overweight
Cancer
Blood clot-related disorders
COVID-19
Long periods of inactivity
- Lengthy trips in sitting position
- Bed rest

Symptoms of pulmonary embolisms

Fever
Rapid/irregular heartbeat
Excessive sweating
Lightheadedness
Dizziness
Clammy/discolored skin (cyanosis)
Leg pain and/or swelling
Cough with bloody/blood-streaked mucus
Sudden shortness of breath
Fainting
Chest pain, sensation similar to heart attack

Treatment of pulmonary embolisms

The main focus of pulmonary embolism treatment is to both maintain and reduce the current blood clot, along with preventing any future clots. An example of a medicinal treatment is blood thinners, like Heparin, which target that very focus. Additionally, clot dissolvers are very helpful for the same purpose. Surgical treatment is also an option. Clots can be removed in a process where a flexible and thin catheter is threaded through the blood vessels for extraction. Further, a vein filter can be utilized, which prevents the clot from reaching the lungs in general, by the insertion of a specific filter aided by a catheter.