Pulmonary Embolism: What It Is, Signs, Risks & Treatment

When a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs, it’s called a pulmonary embolism (PE). It can feel like a sudden panic attack – shortness of breath, chest pain, fast heartbeat – and it needs quick attention. If you catch the warning signs early, you can get treatment before things get dangerous.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

PE doesn’t always look the same for everyone, but a few symptoms show up again and again. The most frequent are:

• Shortness of breath that comes on fast, even when you’re just sitting.
• Sharp chest pain that may get worse when you breathe in deep.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations).
• Cough, sometimes with blood‑tinged sputum.
• Dizziness or fainting, especially if the clot is big.

If you notice any of these, especially after a long flight, surgery, or a period of inactivity, call a doctor right away. Even mild symptoms can hide a serious clot.

How It's Treated and Prevented

Doctors have several tools to break up or stop clots. Blood thinners (anticoagulants) are the first line – they keep the clot from growing and give the body a chance to dissolve it. In severe cases, a clot‑busting drug (thrombolytic) may be given, or a small procedure can physically remove the clot.

Prevention is just as important as treatment. Here are simple steps that lower the risk of PE:

• Stay active: Walk around every hour if you’re on a long flight or stuck at a desk.
• Wear compression stockings if you have a history of clotting or are recovering from surgery.
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration makes blood thicker, so drink water regularly.
• Follow medication advice if you’ve been prescribed blood thinners – missed doses can raise risk.
• Know your risk factors: recent surgery, cancer, pregnancy, hormone therapy, or a family history of clotting disorders all increase chance of PE.

When you’re at higher risk, doctors might suggest a low‑dose blood thinner as a preventive measure, especially after knee or hip replacement surgery.

Remember, a pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. Quick recognition of symptoms, prompt medical care, and ongoing prevention can save lives. Keep these points in mind, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if something feels off. Your lungs work hard every minute; giving them a clear path is worth the effort.