What is a Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that has traveled from another part of the body. When the blood clot forms in a blood vessel in one area of the body, breaks off, and travels to another area of the body in the blood it is called an embolus. This embolus can lodge itself in a blood vessel. This can block the blood supply to a particular organ. This blockage can prevent oxygen from reaching the lungs and therefore the rest of the body. This PE, particularly a large PE or many clots, can quickly cause serious life-threatening problems and, even death.
What is the cause of PE?
The most common cause of pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins in the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and then travels to the lungs.
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing a blood clot and therefore, pulmonary embolism. These include:
· Prolonged immobility - such as sitting for long periods, bed rest, or being on a long flight or car ride.
· Surgery or injury - especially surgeries that involve the lower extremities or pelvis, or injuries that cause damage to the blood vessels.
· Cancer - some types of cancer, particularly those that affect the lungs or are associated with chemotherapy, can increase the risk of blood clots.
· Pregnancy - the increased pressure on the blood vessels and hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots.
• Hormone therapy or birth control pills - some hormonal medications can increase the risk. Specifically, the estrogen in birth control pills and in hormone replacement therapy can increase clotting factors in the blood.
· Obesity - being overweight or obese can increase risk.
· Smoking - smoking can damage the lining of the blood vessels, making them more susceptible.
· Certain medical conditions - such as heart disease, stroke, or a blood clotting disorder.
What Are Common Symptoms of PE?
The symptoms of pulmonary embolism may vary depending on the size and location of the blood clot. Some common symptoms include:
➢ Sudden shortness of breath, especially when at rest or during physical activity.
➢ Chest pain or discomfort that may worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or bending over.
➢ Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
➢ Coughing up bright red vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
➢ Severe headache.
➢ Sudden vision changes.
➢ Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
➢ Sweating and clammy skin.
➢ Low blood pressure.
➢ Leg swelling or pain, especially in one leg.
➢ Fainting or loss of consciousness.
What Are Some Risk Factors of PE?
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing a pulmonary embolism. These include:
✓ Inactivity or immobility - such as prolonged bed rest, sitting for long periods, or being in a cast after a fracture.
✓ Surgery - especially major surgery on the abdomen, pelvis, hips, or legs.
✓ Trauma or injury - such as a broken bone or severe muscle injury.
✓ Cancer - especially lung, pancreatic, or ovarian cancer.
✓ Pregnancy and childbirth - due to changes in hormones and increased pressure on the veins.
✓ Hormonal medications - such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
✓ Obesity - being overweight or obese can increase the risk.
✓ Smoking - damages the lining of the blood vessels, making them more susceptible to blood clots. Tobacco use increases the risk of clots in some people.
✓ Family history - having a close relative who has had a blood clot increases the risk.
✓ Certain medical conditions - such as heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, or a previous history of clots.
Are There Complications of Pulmonary Embolism?
If left untreated, a pulmonary embolism can lead to a number of serious complications, including:
❖ Pulmonary hypertension - high blood pressure in the arteries that supply blood to the lungs.
❖ Heart failure - the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
❖ Post-thrombotic syndrome - a condition that can occur after a blood clot, causing long-term leg pain, swelling, and skin changes.
❖ Recurrent blood clots - having a history of blood clots increases the risk of developing another one.
❖ Lung infarction - a condition in which the lung tissue dies due to lack of blood flow.
❖ Sepsis - a potentially life-threatening complication that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body.
❖ Stroke - a blood clot can travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
How To Diagnosed Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism is diagnosed using a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. The following are some of the diagnostic tests commonly used to diagnose a pulmonary embolism:
▪ CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) - a special type of X-ray that uses a contrast material to visualize the blood vessels in the lungs.
▪ D-dimer blood test - a blood test that measures a substance called D-dimer, which is released when a blood clot breaks down.
▪ Chest X-ray - to check for signs of lung damage or other conditions that may be causing symptoms.
▪ Ultrasound - to check for blood clots in the legs or pelvis that may have traveled to the lungs.
▪ Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan - a test that uses a radioactive substance to examine blood flow and air movement in the lungs.
▪ Pulmonary angiography - a more invasive test that involves injecting a contrast material into the blood vessels to visualize the lungs. This exam may also be used to evaluate various conditions, such as aneurysm (bulging of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages.
Can Pulmonary Embolisms Be Prevented?
There are several measures you can take to help prevent a pulmonary embolism:
· Stay active - regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk.
· Maintain a healthy weight - being overweight or obese can increase the risks.
· Quit smoking - smoking damages the lining of the blood vessels, making them more susceptible.
· Stay hydrated - drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, which can increase the risk of clots.
· Wear compression stockings - these can help improve blood flow and prevent blood clots from forming in the legs.
· Take prescribed medications as directed - if you are at high risk of developing blood clots, your doctor may prescribe blood-thinning medications or other preventive measures.
· Move around - if you are sitting for long periods, such as during a long flight, make sure to get up and move around periodically to improve blood flow.
Which Supplement Can Help Prevent a PE?
There are many supplements that may help prevent blood clots and reducing the risk of pulmonary embolism. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you are taking prescription medications or have a history of health problems.
Some of the supplements that are sometimes suggested for preventing blood clots:
▪ Omega-3 fatty acids - found in fish oil and other sources, omega-3 fatty acids are believed to help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.
▪ Vitamin E - an antioxidant that may help prevent blood clots by reducing oxidative stress.
▪ Garlic - has blood-thinning properties and may help reduce clot risks.
▪ Ginkgo biloba - an herb that is believed to help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots.
▪ Turmeric - a spice that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risks.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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