A pulmonary embolism is a blockage of an artery in the lungs. It is caused by a clot that travels through the bloodstream to the lungs. Once the clot is stuck in a lung artery, it blocks the blood from nourishing that lung. The tissues on the other side of the blockage may die if it doesn't receive enough blood from other sources. The lung may become damaged and stop working properly. In severe cases this can lead to death.
An embolism occurs when a clot moves through the bloodstream from the location where it was formed and becomes stuck in a blood vessel. An embolus, can be a blood clot, air bubble, or piece of fat, bone marrow, or tumor tissue.
The embolus in a pulmonary embolism is usually a blood clot. A blood clot that forms and remains in a vein is called a thrombus. It most often starts in a vein in the legs or pelvis.
These factors increase your chance of developing pulmonary embolism. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
The symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary in type and severity depending on the size and location of the blockage, and the area affected by the lack of blood. Symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:
Treatment depends on the size and severity of the clot. Emergency treatment and hospitalization may be needed.
Treatments include:
Options include:
In some cases when the blockage is very large, a type of surgery called embolectomy may be done to remove it.
If you have a repeated problem with blood clots, surgery may be done to place a filter in the main vein that leads from the legs to the heart and lungs. This filter traps clots before they can reach the lungs.
If you are diagnosed with pulmonary embolism, follow your doctor's instructions .
Prevention of pulmonary embolism means preventing clots from forming.
You can help prevent clots with a healthful lifestyle:
People at high risk of developing blood clots can do the following:
RESOURCES:
American Lung Association
http://www.lungusa.org
American College of Surgeons
http://www.facs.org/
References:
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Last reviewed September 2009 by Christine Colpitts, CRT, MA
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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