Pulmonary embolism involves:
Blood Clot Formation: Typically starts as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the leg, which dislodges and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs.
Obstruction: The blood clot lodges in a pulmonary artery, obstructing blood flow to parts of the lung.
Complications: May lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxemia), pulmonary infarction (lung tissue death), and right-sided heart strain (pulmonary hypertension).
Clinical Evaluation
Symptoms: Assessment of symptoms such as sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain (especially with deep breathing or coughing), rapid heartbeat, and coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
Physical Examination: Examination findings may include signs of respiratory distress, leg swelling (if concurrent DVT), and signs of heart strain.
Diagnostic Tests: Imaging tests such as CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) or ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan to confirm the presence and extent of pulmonary embolism.
Sudden onset of shortness of breath, which may worsen with exertion.
Sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations).
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
Sweating.
Leg swelling or pain (if there is also deep vein thrombosis).
Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications:
Anticoagulation Therapy: Immediate administration of blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) to prevent further clotting and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Thrombolytic Therapy: In severe cases, clot-dissolving medications (thrombolytics) may be used to rapidly dissolve the clot.
Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen to improve oxygenation of the blood.
Supportive Care: Monitoring in a hospital setting, pain relief, and management of symptoms.
Preventive Measures: Prevention strategies include early mobilization after surgery, use of compression stockings, and medications to prevent DVT in high-risk patients.