Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs. It occurs when part or all of a blood clot travels to the lungs from the legs, or in rare cases, other parts of the body. The clot blocks the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart, creating a potentially fatal event. If pulmonary embolism is suspected, call 911 immediately.
Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary embolism is the most severe of all vein conditions. The two greatest risk factors for pulmonary embolism are having a blood clot in the deep vein of your leg and having a previous pulmonary embolism. Other risk factors include:
- Current or previous deep vein thrombosis
- Recent surgery (commonly orthopedic surgery such as hip or knee)
- Family or personal history of blood clots
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, hormone therapy or use of oral contraceptives
- Obesity
- Tobacco use
- Prolonged sitting or bed rest
- Cancer
- Prolonged car, bus or airplane travel
- Talk to your healthcare provider about any risk factors for pulmonary embolism you may have.
Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism depend on the size of the clot and where it settles in the lungs. They are similar to those of a heart attack, pneumonia or a panic attack. Seek medical attention immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain (came on suddenly with no explanation)
- Trouble breathing (rapid breathing or heart rate)
- Coughing up blood or pink mucus
Pulmonary Embolism Treatment
Treatment for pulmonary embolism depends on the location and size of the blood clot. If the situation is deemed minor, doctors may prescribe anticoagulants (blood thinners) or thrombolytic therapy (clot dissolvers). In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove threatening clots; especially those that restrict proper blood flow to the heart or lungs. Surgical treatments include: inferior vena cava filter, clot removal, and open heart surgery.
Get Care Now
The board certified cardiovascular specialists at Saint Francis Heart and Vascular Institute are specially trained to care for pulmonary embolism. Call 918-494-8500 to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
For additional information, you can also talk with your primary care provider. If you do not have a primary care provider and are looking for heart care in Tulsa, please contact our Well Connected Hotline at 918-488-6688.