Get Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Online

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in one or more pulmonary arteries in the lungs, most commonly caused by blood clots that travel from the deep veins of the legs. PE can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, as it reduces oxygen delivery and can put severe strain on the heart. Early diagnosis and anticoagulation therapy significantly improve outcomes.

Common symptoms include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that may worsen with breathing, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, coughing (sometimes with blood-tinged mucus), dizziness, and low oxygen saturation. If you are experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as a CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), which is the most common and definitive test. Other tools include a D-dimer blood test, ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan, ultrasound of the legs to detect DVT, and assessment of oxygen levels. A physician will also review your risk factors and clinical history.

The main treatment for PE is anticoagulation therapy, medications that prevent existing clots from growing and reduce the risk of new clots forming. Common options include oral medications such as apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), dabigatran (Pradaxa), and warfarin (Coumadin). In severe cases, clot-dissolving drugs (thrombolytics) or procedures may be needed in a hospital setting.

Treatment duration depends on the cause and circumstances of your PE. Most patients are treated for a minimum of 3 months. Those with ongoing risk factors, a second PE, or an unprovoked clot may require longer or indefinite anticoagulation. Your physician will assess your individual risk and benefit profile to determine the right duration for you.

The main risk of anticoagulants is bleeding. This can range from minor bruising to more serious events such as gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding. It is important to take your medication as prescribed, avoid certain medications and supplements that interact with blood thinners, and report any unusual bleeding to your doctor promptly. Warfarin also requires regular INR blood tests to ensure safe dosing.

Doctronic uses AI-assisted evaluation to gather your medical history, current medications, and symptoms. A licensed physician then reviews your information, confirms your diagnosis and treatment needs, and develops a treatment plan, which may include a prescription refill or care coordination. The process is fully online and designed to complement your existing care team.

Yes. Doctronic operates with licensed physicians who review and approve every treatment plan. All consultations are doctor-reviewed and regularly audited for clinical quality. The platform is HIPAA-compliant, protecting your personal health information. Doctronic is available to adults 18 and older in any U.S. state.