Some Notable Facts On Pulmonary Embolisms

A Pulmonary embolism is a medical condition that occurs due to sudden blockage in arteries that carry blood to the lungs. The blockage in lung arteries occurs when a blood clot, that moves through one of the deep veins of the leg, to a lung, which in turn, either completely blocks or restricts the normal flow of blood.

A Pulmonary Embolism, sometimes abbreviated as a “PE” is a serious condition that has the potential to:

• Completely damage a part of the lung, resulting in increased blood pressure in the pulmonary veins.
• Decrease the levels of fresh oxygen in your blood.
• Harm other body parts because of lack of oxygen-rich blood.

If the size of a blood clot is large enough to completely block the flow of oxygen-rich blood through veins, this condition can lead to death. A Pulmonary embolism is a highly complex form of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in which blood clots developed in the deep veins of the legs. The loosely attached clots can move with the flow of the blood, through the veins, causing blockage. Sometimes, aPE is referred to as a venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Immobilization is a major cause of the occurrence of PE. Long bed rest after an injury or operation can result in the formation of a clot either the in the veins of arms or legs.

A long journey by plane or car can also cause this condition. Sitting for a long time in the same position can form blood clots as well.

Apart from this, trauma or injury (especially to the legs), obesity, heart ailments (such as an irregular heartbeat), or a family history of blood clots are other potential signs of elevated clot risk.

Major signs and symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath that may occur suddenly:

• Sudden pain in chest which becomes unbearable when breathing
• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Irregular pulse rate
• Coughing up blood
• Rapid breathing
• Swelling of the leg or along a vein in the leg
• Sweating
• Skin discoloration on the effected leg
• Nervousness
• Fainting

Some important points that can help prevent PE:

• Women who use oral contraceptives, such as yaz, can also experience a PE. However, a yaz pulmonary embolism lawsuit can help obtain compensation if this has occurred. It is advisable to use such medications as per your doctor’s instructions and consider all possible birth controls before resorting to a hormonal one.
• Regular exercise can also prevent this condition
• Take medicines that prevent clot formation as per your doctor’s advice
• Regular body check-ups are a must, especially after the age of 30