Overview
Pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening. Prompt diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.
Symptoms
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain, worse when breathing in
- Coughing up blood
- Fast heartbeat
- Fainting
- A painful swollen leg
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include recent surgery, immobility, long journeys, pregnancy, cancer, oral contraceptives, previous clots and obesity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses blood tests (D-dimer), CT pulmonary angiography and leg ultrasound.
Treatment
Treatment includes blood-thinning medicines. Severe cases may need clot-busting medicines or procedures.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for sudden breathlessness or chest pain.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
