Shortness of breath is a common experience that can have various causes. While it’s often harmless and resolves on its own, in some cases, it can be a symptom of a severe medical condition like pulmonary embolism (PE).

Understanding Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) happens when a blood clot breaks or loosens. It travels through your veins, getting stuck in an artery in your lungs. These clots usually start deep within your leg veins (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) and can block some or all blood flow to certain lung areas.

Pulmonary Embolism Symptoms

Pulmonary embolism (PE) symptoms can be different for everyone, and how bad they feel depends on the size and location of the clot. Here are some common symptoms of PE:

• Shortness of breath: This is the most common symptom of PE and can occur suddenly, even at rest.
• Chest pain: The pain can be sharp and stabbing or feel like a dull ache. It might worsen with deep breaths or coughing.
• Rapid breathing: You might feel like you’re struggling to catch your breath.
• Coughing: A dry cough is common with PE, and sometimes it might produce bloody mucus.
• Rapid heart rate: Your heart might have rapid or faster heart rate than usual to compensate for the lack of oxygen.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness: This can occur due to decreased blood flow to the brain.
• Unexplained sweating: This can be a sign of the body’s response to stress caused by a lack of oxygen.
• Bluish tint on the skin or lips: In severe cases, the skin or lips might turn slightly blue due to a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.

It’s important to note that not everyone with PE will experience all these symptoms. Some people might only have one or two symptoms, and the severity can vary significantly.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, especially sudden and severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood, look for immediate medical attention:

• Call 911 or proceed to the emergency room near you.
• Do not delay seeking help, as PE is a life-threatening condition.

Pulmonary Embolism Causes

Certain things can raise your chances of getting a blood clot in lungs, also known as pulmonary embolism (PE). Here’s a look at some common causes:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): As mentioned earlier, DVT is the most common source of blood clots that travel to the lungs.
• Prolonged periods of inactivity: Sitting for long periods, such as during a long flight or car ride, can slow blood flow and increase the risk of blood clots.
• Surgery or medical procedures: Some surgeries, particularly those on your legs or belly, can make blood clots more likely.
• Certain medical conditions: Conditions like heart failure, cancer, and chronic inflammatory diseases can increase the risk of blood clots.
• Pregnancy and childbirth: Being pregnant and the weeks following childbirth can raise your chances of developing blood clots.
• Taking birth control pills or going for a hormone replacement therapy: For some women, these medications may cause a small increase in the chance of developing blood clots.

Diagnosing Pulmonary Embolism

Diagnosing PE can involve several tests, depending on your symptoms and medical history. Here are some standard tests used to diagnose PE:

• Medical history and physical examination: To acknowledge your situation better, your doctor will discuss your symptoms in detail, review your medical history, and conduct a physical examination.
• Blood tests: Blood tests can help check for markers that indicate the presence of a blood clot.
• Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray can provide valuable information to see if your shortness of breath might be caused by something else entirely, like pneumonia.
• Ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan: This imaging test can help identify areas of the lungs where blood flow is blocked.
• CT scan of the chest with contrast: This imaging test provides a more detailed picture of the lungs and blood vessels and can confirm the presence of a blood clot.

Treatment for Pulmonary Embolism

Treatment for PE aims to dissolve the blood clot, prevent new clots from forming, and minimize lung damage. Here are some standard treatment options:

• Blood-thinning medications, like anticoagulants, help stop blood clots from getting maximized and prevent new ones from forming.
• Thrombolytic therapy: Medications might sometimes break down the blood clot. Doctors usually recommend this treatment for more serious situations.

Catheter-directed therapy: In this procedure, a catheter is inserted into a vein and threaded to the location of the clot. Medications or devices can then break up or remove the clot directly.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery might be necessary to remove a large blood clot if other treatment options are unsuitable.

Preventing Pulmonary Embolism

There are several ways to minimize your risk of developing a blood clot and PE:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being obese or overweight can increase the risk of blood clots.
• Stay active: Routine physical activity helps to improve blood flow and circulation.
• Avoid prolonged periods of sitting: If you must sit for long periods, get up and move around every hour or so.
• Wear compression stockings: These stockings can help to improve blood flow in the legs.
• It’s important to talk to your doctor about your individual risk factors for blood clots. Together, you can decide if any preventive measures are necessary to keep you healthy.

Living with Pulmonary Embolism

If you’ve been diagnosed with PE, you will likely need to take medication for some time, depending on the severity of the clot and your risk factors. Frequent follow-up appointments with your doctor are vital to track your condition and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Conclusion

While shortness of breath can arise from various causes, some symptoms warrant a prompt visit to the emergency room. If you experience sudden and intense difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, or any other concerning indication, seek immediate medical attention. Timely detection and treatment of pulmonary embolism are crucial for optimal health outcomes. You can contact Express Care to learn more.