Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, typically originating from deep veins in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), travels to the lungs and blocks a pulmonary artery. This sudden obstruction impairs blood flow, reduces oxygen exchange, and strains the heart, potentially leading to shock or death if untreated. Risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, cancer, pregnancy, and genetic clotting disorders like thrombophilia.

Symptoms
Common signs appear abruptly: shortness of breath, sharp chest pain worsening with deep breaths or coughing, rapid heartbeat, coughing blood, sweating, dizziness, and leg swelling. Larger clots may cause fainting, blue lips, or severe anxiety. Early recognition is critical as symptoms mimic other conditions like heart attack or pneumonia.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis involves CT pulmonary angiography, D-dimer blood tests, and echocardiography. Treatment prioritizes anticoagulants like heparin or DOACs (e.g., apixaban, rivaroxaban) to prevent clot growth. Severe cases require thrombolysis, thrombectomy, or IVC filters; long-term therapy reduces recurrence.