Pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage of an artery in the lung. The blockage is due to a blood clot in the pulmonary artery that carries blood from the heart to the lungs. Pulmonary embolism is considered a potentially life-threatening and serious condition requiring immediate medical intervention. The seriousness of the condition varies with the size of the blood clot. The chance of surviving a pulmonary embolism is greater if you are diagnosed and treated quickly.
Causes
A pulmonary embolism is primarily caused due to a blood clot that originates in the veins that are deep in your muscles (mainly in your legs). This condition is termed a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The factors that increase the chances of developing DVT and in turn cause pulmonary embolism are genetic inheritance, any major surgery in your medical history, cancer, hip or leg fractures, history of stroke or heart attack, obesity, smoking, taking contraceptive pills, etc.
Symptoms
The common symptoms of pulmonary embolism are sharp chest pain radiating towards your shoulder, neck, arm, and jaws; coughing; shortness of breath; sweating; dizziness; restlessness; anxiety; fast heartbeat; fainting and feeling lightheaded.
Diagnosis
The doctor first enquires about your general health condition, medical history, and the symptoms. After conducting a physical examination, your doctor may order tests for chest X-ray and ECG. CT scan, ELISA, venography, and ultrasound may be required to determine the level of complication. You might also be recommended to undergo pulmonary angiography to get a clear picture of blood vessels.
Treatment
There are various effective treatment methods for pulmonary embolism. Treatment is started immediately after the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism to avoid any risk or complications which might lead to death. Oxygen is given immediately to aid the breathlessness. Your vascular surgeon will advise the best treatment option depending on the severity of your condition.
Various options include:
Anticoagulants
Your doctor may recommend anticoagulant medication for thinning the blood. Anticoagulants prevent the formation of new clots and break/dissolve the clots that are already formed.
Filters
Your doctor places medical filters in the large vein (inferior vena cava) by inserting them via a thin tube. This procedure may be recommended if anticoagulants are found insufficient for the treatment. Or, if you are a person where anticoagulant treatment is not preferred (pregnant), then your doctor may prefer treatment with filters.
Catheter
This treatment option is called suction thrombectomy and involves the insertion of a catheter to deliver a high-pressure stream of saline solution to remove and break up the clot. Sometimes, instruments on the end of the catheter are also used to mechanically break up the clot.
Surgery
Rarely, your surgeon may recommend removal of the clot by a surgery called pulmonary embolectomy, if other treatment measures are not effective. Your surgeon uses a catheter to break the clot and facilitate the flow of blood.
Prevention
Prevention of pulmonary embolism starts with the prevention of DVT. The following steps can be taken to prevent the risk of pulmonary embolism:
- Practice daily physical exercise and keep yourself active
- Adopt good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle
- Compliance with anticoagulant medicines after certain surgeries
