What is Pulmonary Embolus?:

Pulmonary Embolus is a blockage of an artery in the lungs.

What Causes Pulmonary Embolus?:

Pulmonary Embolus is caused by droplets of fat, air bubbles, clumps of tumor cells, or a blood clot.

If the Pulmonary Embolus is caused by blood clots from the veins in the legs, it is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

It is also caused by blood clots in the veins in the hips.

Pulmonary Embolus Risk Factors:

The risk factors for Pulmonary Embolus include:

• Extended bed rest or prolonged inactivity becaused of:
  • Cancer,
  • Oral contraceptive use,
  • Child birth,
  • Traumatic injury,
  • Hip fracture,
  • Long flight, road trip, or train journey,
  • Pelvic Surgery,
  • Stroke or heart attack, and
  • Heart surgery.

Pulmonay Embolus Symptoms:

Often the symptoms of pulmonary embolism are not so clear, and may even be similar to those associated with other diseases. Pulmonary Embolism symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath,
• Chest pain,
• Tachycardia,
• Wheezing and coughing,
• Skin discoloration (bluish skin) due to low blood-oxygen levels,
• Leg pain, and
• Lightheadedness.

Pulmonary Embolus Treatment:

Emergency treatment and hospitalization are often necessary. Thrombolytic therapy, Anticoagulant therapy, and Oxygen therapy are often necessary.

Pulmonary Embolus Prognosis:

In case of severe pulmonary embolism, the survival rate is often as low as 50%.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Pulmonary Embolus Treatment News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Pulmonary Embolus / PE Articles.

Note: Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you suspect lung disease. Information published at this mesothelioma lung disease asbestos cancer forum - or most other websites for that matter - should not be relied upon for health decisions. The information presented on this web site is not intended as a substitute for medical care, medical, legal, or professional advise. Please talk with your healthcare provider for all your health concerns.