Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition caused by a blockage of a pulmonary artery. It happens when a blood clot occurs in one of the arteries that travel from the heart to the lungs. It is a health emergency that can lead to breathing troubles and chest pain; therefore, knowing the causes and symptoms can help in early diagnosis and treatment. Keep reading to learn more about pulmonary embolism in detail.

Pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism is a health condition that affects the lungs. It occurs when a blood clot travels through the bloodstream and remains in an artery in the lung, blocking or narrowing it. This blockage can cause damage to lung tissue, as well as decrease oxygen levels in other body parts. In some circumstances, pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Causes
Several factors can cause pulmonary embolism. To fully understand the condition, examining the possible risk factors is important. Some of the common causes of PE include-

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the leading cause of pulmonary embolism, where the blood clot forms in a vein, usually in the leg, and can travel to the lungs.
• Surgery or trauma that causes blood clots.
• Immobility for extended periods, such as long-distance travel or bed rest
• Genetic or inherited blood clotting disorders

Diagnosing the specific cause of PE is essential for effective treatment and prevention. For example, if you have experienced a pulmonary embolism or have a family history of blood clotting disorders, you should speak with your healthcare provider about the possibility of genetic testing. By understanding the underlying cause of PE, you can take steps to reduce your risk and seek appropriate intervention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Symptoms
Pulmonary embolism is a severe condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of PE, which can range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms of the condition are listed below.

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Blood-streaked mucus while coughing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue or weakness
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Anxiety

Complications associated with pulmonary embolism
The complications associated with PE can be severe and even life-threatening if left untreated. These include-

• Low oxygen levels- When there is a blockage in the arteries of your lungs, it reduces the amount of oxygen available your body parts receive, leading to organ damage.
• Cardiac arrest- A pulmonary embolism places extra strain on your heart due to insufficient oxygen supply, potentially leading to cardiac arrest (heart attack).
• Respiratory failure- In severe cases, respiratory failure may occur due to insufficient air entering the lungs, causing breathing difficulties. It could be life-threatening if proper treatment is not administered promptly.

Diagnosis
To properly diagnose pulmonary embolism, it is crucial to understand the symptoms and risk factors associated with the condition. A health expert will likely perform several tests to determine whether or not a patient has PE.

• Blood tests- These tests can help rule out other conditions that share symptoms similar to a pulmonary embolism, such as a heart attack or pneumonia.
• Imaging tests- Tests such as a CT scan, chest X-ray, or pulmonary angiogram may be used to help visualize the blood vessels in the lungs and identify any clots that may be present.
• Pulmonary function tests- These tests may measure lung function and help identify any lung abnormalities or restrictions.
• Ultrasound – This method uses sound waves to scan for deep vein blood clots.

Treatment options
After being diagnosed with PE, a health expert will suggest the best course of action and available treatment options for the patient.

• Prescriptions- Supplements are usually prescribed to prevent new blood clots from forming and the existing ones from growing.
• Vena Cava Filter- A small device is inserted into the vena cava (the blood vessel that carries blood from the body to the heart) to prevent blood clots from moving up to the lungs.
• Surgery- In rare cases, surgery may be required to remove the blood clot from the lung. It may be advised when other therapies fail to yield results.
• Oxygen therapy- This involves the use of oxygen to help with breathing difficulties.
• Percutaneous thrombectomy- This method involves guiding a catheter to the affected area with the help of X-rays to break up the clot.

Patients with the condition must remember to follow the treatment plan a health expert prescribes and continue until recommended otherwise. In severe circumstances, hospitalization may be required to monitor and manage the condition. Always consult a healthcare professional about any concerns or questions regarding treatment options for pulmonary embolism.