Pulmonary Embolism: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot gets caught in one of the arteries that go from the heart to the lungs. This blockage can cause damage to the lungs, low oxygen levels in the blood, and harm to other organs in the body such as the heart. In severe cases, PE can be life-threatening.

What Causes Pulmonary Embolism?

Most often, pulmonary embolisms are caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from deep veins in the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These clots can develop when blood flow is restricted due to prolonged periods of inactivity, such as during long flights or bed rest after surgery or illness.

In other cases, PE's can be a marker for underlying diseases, such as cancer, nephrotic syndrome, or genetic conditions, like Factor V Leiden or Protein C, S, or antithrombin deficiency, or the prothrombin gene mutation. PE's are also more likely to occur in pregnancy or be related to medications such as hormone replacement or oral contraceptives.

Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism

Several factors can increase your risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, including:

• Prolonged immobility or changes in normal blood flow

• Hypercoagulability (blood that is more likely to clot)

• Damage to blood vessel walls

• Certain medications, such as birth control pills

• Smoking, cancer, recent surgery (especially orthopedic procedures involving the hips or knees), or pregnancy

• COVID-19

• Obesity

Preventing Pulmonary Embolism

To reduce your risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, you can take the following steps:

1. Take blood thinners (anticoagulants) as prescribed by your doctor

2. Wear compression stockings to improve blood flow in your legs

3. Exercise regularly and move around after prolonged periods of inactivity

4. Stretch your legs and ankles during long trips

5. Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle

6. Quit smoking

If you have a history of blood clots, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, or a family history of blood clots, discuss your risk factors with your doctor.

Treating Pulmonary Embolism

Treatment for pulmonary embolism depends on the severity of the condition. In life-threatening cases, doctors may administer thrombolytic drugs to break up the clot or perform surgery to remove it. However, surgery is rarely necessary.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods for pulmonary embolism, you can take steps to protect your health and reduce your risk of developing this serious condition. If you suspect that you or someone else may have a pulmonary embolism, seek immediate medical attention.

For more information on pulmonary embolism, visit:

• CDC - Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

• NHLBI - Venous Thromboembolism

• American Heart Association - What is Venous Thromboembolism (VTE)?