OverviewWhat is a pulmonary embolism?A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the lung that occurs when a clot in another part of the body (often the leg or arm) moves through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in the blood vessels of the lung. This restricts blood flow to the lungs, lowers oxygen levels in the lungs and increases blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Show
If a clot develops in a vein and it stays there, it’s called a thrombus. If the clot detaches from the wall of the vein and travels to another part of your body, it’s called an embolus. If PEs are not treated quickly, they can cause heart or lung damage and even death. Who is at risk of developing a blood clot?People at risk for developing a blood clot are those who:
People at risk for developing a pulmonary embolism include those who:
How serious is a pulmonary embolism?A pulmonary embolism may dissolve on its own; it is seldom fatal when diagnosed and treated properly. However, if left untreated, it can be serious, leading to other medical complications, including death. A pulmonary embolism can:
Symptoms and CausesWhat are the symptoms of pulmonary embolism?Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary, depending on the severity of the clot. Although most people with a pulmonary embolism experience symptoms, some will not. The first signs are usually shortness of breath and chest pains that get worse if you exert yourself. You may cough up bloody sputum. If you have these symptoms get medical attention right away. Pulmonary embolism is serious but very treatable. Quick treatment greatly reduces the chance of death. Symptoms may include:
It is also possible to have a blood clot and not have any symptoms, so discuss your risk factors with your health care provider. If you have any symptoms of pulmonary embolism, get medical attention immediately. What causes pulmonary embolism?Pulmonary embolism may occur:
Diagnosis and TestsHow is a pulmonary embolism detected?Pulmonary embolism is commonly detected through the following tests:
Management and TreatmentHow is pulmonary embolism treated?Treatment for pulmonary embolism is typically provided in a hospital, where your condition can be closely monitored. The length of your treatment and hospital stay will vary, depending on the severity of the clot. Depending on your medical condition, treatment options may include anticoagulant (blood-thinner) medications, thrombolytic therapy, compression stockings, and sometimes surgery or interventional procedures to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of future blood clots. Anticoagulant medications In most cases, treatment consists of anti- coagulant medications (also called blood thinners). Anticoagulants decrease the blood’s ability to clot and prevent future blood clots. Anticoagulant medications include warfarin (Coumadin®), heparin, low-molecular weight heparin (such as Lovenox® or Dalteparin®) and fondaparinux (Arixtra®).
You and your family will receive more information about how to take the anticoagulant medication that is prescribed. As with any medication, it’s important that you understand how and when to take your anticoagulant and to follow your doctor’s guidelines. The type of medication you were prescribed, how long you need to take it, and the type of follow-up monitoring you’ll need depends on your diagnosis. Be sure to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so your response to the medication can be monitored closely. While taking anticoagulants, your follow-up will include frequent blood tests, such as:
What are other treatment options?Compression stockings Compression stockings (support hose) aid blood flow in the legs and should be used as prescribed by your doctor. The stockings are usually knee- high length and compress your legs to prevent the pooling of blood. Talk with your doctor about how to use your compression stockings, for how long, and how to care for them. It is important to launder compression stockings according to directions to prevent damaging them. Procedures If a pulmonary embolism is life-threatening, or if other treatments aren’t effective, your doctor may recommend:
Thrombolytic therapy Thrombolytic medications (“clot busters”), including tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), are used to dissolve the clot. Thrombolytics are always given in a hospital where the patient can be closely monitored. These medications are used in special situations, such as if the patient’s blood pressure is low or if the patient’s condition is unstable due to the pulmonary embolism. PreventionHow do I prevent pulmonary embolism?
Living WithWhat is follow-up care after a pulmonary embolism?Be sure you discuss and understand your follow- up care with your doctor. Follow your doctor’s recommendations to reduce the risk of another pulmonary embolism. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so your response to prescribed treatments can be monitored. What is the most common presenting symptom in pulmonary embolism?The most common presenting symptom is dyspnea followed by chest pain (classically pleuritic but often dull) and cough. However, many patients, including those with large PE, have mild or nonspecific symptoms or are asymptomatic.
What are the most common presenting signs and symptoms associated with a pulmonary embolism PE )? Quizlet?Dyspnea, chest pain, and cough are the most frequent symptoms of PE, while fever, tachycardia, abnormal pulmonary signs, and peripheral vascular collapse are the most common physical findings.
What are four common signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism?What are the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?. Sudden shortness of breath (most common). Chest pain (usually worse with breathing). A feeling of anxiety.. A feeling of dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.. Irregular heartbeat.. Palpitations (heart racing). Coughing and/or coughing up blood.. Sweating.. What are vital signs of pulmonary embolism?Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include difficulty breathing, chest pain on inspiration, and palpitations. Clinical signs include low blood oxygen saturation and cyanosis, rapid breathing, and a rapid heart rate. Severe cases of PE can lead to collapse, abnormally low blood pressure, and sudden death.
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