Pulmonary Embolism Causes & Risks

Causes

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.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing pulmonary embolism. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

Blood clot in a deep vein of a leg or pelvis
Increased levels of clotting factors in the blood. Usually caused by cancer (eg, pancreatic)
Prolonged bed rest, such as during a serious illness
Major surgery, especially after pelvic surgery, knee replacement, or heart surgery
Injury to a vein in a leg or pelvis
Fractures of the hip or thigh bone (femur)
Heart attack , stroke
Certain blood disorders
Prolonged sitting, such as during a long trip
Pregnancy
Birth control pills
Smoking
Obesity

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. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.