Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that typically develops in the leg and then travels to the lungs. After reaching the lungs, it causes damage by blocking blood flow within the lungs. Signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism vary depending on the size and location of the clot and may include;
- Shortness of breath* (most common); may worsen with physical activity
- Chest pain (may worsen with breathing)
- Fainting
- Coughing and/or coughing up blood
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness/syncope (passing out)
- Feeling anxious
* Any unexplained shortness of breath or fainting should be assessed by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Risk Factors for PE
- A previous episode of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or family history of DVT
- Immobility, such as bed rest during hospitalization or at home
- Pregnancy and the first few weeks after giving birth
- Age (increased risk with age)
- Obesity or being overweight
- Cancer and cancer treatment
- Smoking any substance
- Hormone therapy or birth control pills
- Surgery
- A catheter (flexible tube) in the deep veins used for medical treatment
- Injuries from an accident
- Some inherited blood disorders
Complications
- Pulmonary Hypertension: For more information click HERE
PEs are dangerous, potentially deadly and require immediate medical attention at a hospital.
When you are seen at the hospital, the health care provider will obtain your medical history and perform a physical examination.
Testing to diagnose a PE may include the following:
- Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTPA) - A special type of x-ray that uses dye/contrast to look at the blood vessels in your lungs.
- Pulmonary V/Q Scan - Shows which part of your lung is getting airflow (ventilation) and blood flow (perfusion).
Additional testing also includes:
- Echocardiogram - a non-invasive ultrasound imaging test that provides detailed images of the heart structure and function by using soundwaves. A probe is placed on the outside of the chest, and images are collected. This is a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting strain on the heart caused by a developing pulmonary embolism (PE) or identifying any free-floating clot.
- Doppler ultrasound of the legs - a non-invasive ultrasound imaging test that is used to diagnose a blood clot formed in the legs known as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Blood tests are conducted to assess any stress on the heart, evaluate the blood’s clotting ability, and identify genetic disorders that may contribute to abnormal clotting. Arterial blood gases may also checked to analyze the amount of oxygen in the blood.
If you are found to have a PE and the additional testing raises concerns, the pulmonary critical care team is alerted and promptly arrive to the bedside to evaluate you. If after assessment your PE is considered at an intermediate or high risk by the Pulmonary Critical Care team, a PERT alert is activated. Click HERE to learn more about PERT.