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Pulmonary Embolism

A life-threatening medical emergency caused by blockage of the pulmonary arteries with a blood clot.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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What is Pulmonary Embolism?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot — most often formed in the veins of the leg or pelvis — breaks free and travels to the pulmonary arteries, where it causes a blockage. This impairs gas exchange in the lungs and increases the workload on the right side of the heart.

The severity of PE depends on the size of the occluded vessel and the patient's cardiopulmonary reserve. Massive PE can cause shock and sudden cardiac arrest, while sub-massive PE may follow a more insidious course.

CT pulmonary angiography is the gold standard for rapid diagnosis. Early anticoagulant therapy significantly reduces mortality.

Symptoms

Sudden shortness of breath
Pleuritic chest pain (worsening with deep breathing)
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure
Sudden fainting or altered consciousness
Accompanying DVT signs in the leg (swelling, pain)
Bluish lips (cyanosis) due to low oxygen

Risk Factors

History of deep vein thrombosis or active DVT
Prolonged immobility and major surgery
Cancer and chemotherapy
Pregnancy and the postpartum period
Inherited thrombophilia
Oral contraceptive or hormone therapy
Obesity, smoking, and advanced age

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services immediately for sudden shortness of breath and chest pain
  • Go to the emergency department without delay
  • If consciousness changes or fainting occurs
  • If respiratory distress develops in someone with known DVT
  • In people with a history of PE, consult the physician before stopping anticoagulants

Treatment Methods

01
Anticoagulant therapy (first-line): low-molecular-weight heparin, fondaparinux, direct oral anticoagulants, or warfarin
02
Thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) therapy (in massive PE with hemodynamic instability)
03
Catheter-directed or surgical embolectomy (in selected cases)
04
Oxygen support and hemodynamic stabilization
05
IVC filter (in high-risk patients for whom anticoagulation is not possible)
06
Long-term anticoagulation and thrombophilia evaluation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.