What is pulmonary embolism and how to treat it?

  Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that occurs when one or more blood clots block blood flow in the pulmonary arteries. These thrombi usually form in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis. In this article, we will discuss what pulmonary embolism is, its symptoms, how to diagnose it and what treatments are available.

   What is pulmonary embolism?

  Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot, called an embolus, travels to the lungs through the bloodstream. The thrombus can block part or all of the pulmonary artery, the largest blood vessel in the lungs. This blockage can severely disrupt blood flow to the lungs, leading to damage to the lungs and other organs due to hypoxia.

   Symptoms of pulmonary embolism

  Symptoms of PE can vary and depend on the size of the blockage, the part of the lungs it has reached, and the extent to which the blockage affects blood flow to the lungs. The most common symptoms are:

• Sudden, unreasonable shortness of breath

• Chest pain that intensifies when breathing deeply

• Cough that may be dry, but may also contain sputum or blood

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Fatigue, nausea, dizziness, fainting

   Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism

  Diagnosing PE often begins with a medical history and physical examination, but most often requires additional tests. Tests that a doctor may order include:

• Blood tests: Blood tests can reveal the presence of blood clots or lung damage.

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound can help detect blood clots, especially in the deep veins of the legs.

• Pulmonary angiography: In this test, contrast is introduced into the patient's bloodstream, and then a series of X-rays are taken to see how the contrast flows through the lungs.

• Computed tomography (CT): CT is often used to detect PE because it can provide detailed images of the lungs.

  
  

   Treatment of pulmonary embolism

  Treatment for PE is aimed at resolving the blockage in the pulmonary artery, preventing the formation of new blood clots and relieving symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Anticoagulants: These drugs, also known as anticoagulants, help prevent the formation of new blood clots and the enlargement of existing clots.

• Thrombolytic drugs: These drugs, also known as clot-dissolving drugs, are used in an emergency to quickly dissolve a clot.

• Venous filters: In some situations where patients cannot take anticoagulants, a doctor may decide to place a filter in the main vein leading to the lungs to stop clots.

  
  

  In summary, pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. If you have any symptoms of PE, such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing with blood, contact your doctor immediately. Early detection and treatment can dramatically improve the prognosis for patients with PE.