Pulmonary Embolism: Act Fast When You Notice These Warning Signs

Nearly one million people in the United States develop a pulmonary embolism every year. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent extensive lung damage, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and other life-threatening consequences of PE.

Board-certified pulmonologist Chuan Jiang, MD, at Chuan Jiang Medicine in Flushing, New York, offers expert diagnosis and care for conditions like PE. His services include education that may help you identify your risk and the warning signs of pulmonary embolism.  

Understanding pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in the pulmonary arteries of the lungs. Clots related to PE are most frequently formed in the deep veins of the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

If left untreated, the blockage caused by PE can impede blood flow to the lungs, resulting in a range of symptoms and potentially severe complications, including:

Pulmonary infarction

The blood clot can cause tissue death in the lung (pulmonary infarction), compromising the body’s ability to maintain adequate oxygenation.

Chronic pulmonary hypertension

PE episodes can damage the pulmonary arteries, increasing blood pressure in the lungs and potentially causing chronic pulmonary hypertension.

Right heart strain

Severe cases may strain the right side of the heart, leading to heart failure.

Recurrent pulmonary embolism

Those who have experienced PE once are at a higher risk of recurrence.

Causes of pulmonary embolism

The primary cause of pulmonary embolism is the migration of a blood clot from the deep veins (DVT), usually in the legs.

Factors contributing to DVT include:

• Prolonged immobility, such as when traveling or confined to bed due to illness
• Recent surgery
• Traumatic injury
• Genetic predisposition to clotting disorders
• Hormonal factors (e.g., birth control, pregnancy)
• Smoking, which increases the risk of blood clots
• Obesity, which contributes to vein problems (venous stasis)
• Medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, and respiratory disorders

Identifying your risk factors for PE can help alert you to its various warning signs, which should never be ignored.

What are the warning signs of pulmonary embolism?

Common warning signs of PE include:

Shortness of breath

Sudden and unexplained difficulty breathing, occurring even at rest, could indicate a compromised respiratory system.

Chest pain

Severe, sharp, or stabbing chest pain that may worsen with deep breaths or coughing is a classic symptom.

Rapid heart rate

An elevated heart rate, especially when combined with other symptoms, may suggest pulmonary embolism.

Cough with bloody sputum

Coughing, sometimes with blood-tinged sputum (hemoptysis) is another red flag for PE.

Leg swelling and pain

Symptoms of DVT, such as leg pain and swelling, may precede or accompany pulmonary embolism.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Jiang today for more information about PE and ways to control your risk factors, such as treatment for DVT.