Pulmonary embolism(PE)

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot gets lodged in an artery in the lungs, blocking blood flow.

What it is:

• A blockage of a lung artery, most often caused by a blood clot that travels from the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).   
   
  It's a potentially life-threatening condition.   
   

Causes:

• Most commonly, blood clots from deep vein thrombosis (DVT).   
   
• Less common causes include:
  • Air bubbles
  • Fat embolisms (often from broken bones)   
     
    Tumors   
     

Risk Factors:

• Prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights, bed rest)   
   
• Surgery   
   
• Cancer   
   
  Certain medical conditions (e.g., heart disease)   
   
• Hormone therapy (e.g., birth control pills)   
   
• Pregnancy   
   
• Family history of blood clots   
   
• Smoking   
   
• Obesity   
   
• Older age.   
   

Symptoms:

• Sudden shortness of breath   
   
• Chest pain (often sharp and worsens with deep breathing)   
   
• Cough (may produce bloody sputum)   
   
• Rapid heart rate   
   
• Lightheadedness or fainting   
   

Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis can be challenging, as symptoms can mimic other conditions.   
   
• Tests may include:
  • CT pulmonary angiography   
     
  • Blood tests (e.g., D-dimer)   
     
  • Ultrasound (to check for DVT)  
     
  • V/Q scan.  
     

Treatment:

• The primary goal is to prevent the clot from getting larger and to prevent new clots from forming.   
   
• Treatment options include:
  • Anticoagulant medications (blood thinners)   
     
  • Thrombolytic medications (to dissolve clots)   
     
  • In rare cases, procedures to remove the clot or place a filter in the vena cava.

Complications:

• Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)   
   
  Pulmonary infarction (death of lung tissue)   
   
• Death   
   

Prevention:

• Moving regularly, especially during long periods of sitting.  
   
• Staying hydrated.   
   
• Wearing compression stockings.
• Taking prescribed anticoagulant medications as directed.   
   

Important Note: Pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, should seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 ASAP!!!

Author

Paddy Kalish OD, JD and B.Arch