Pulmonary embolism is sudden blockage of blood flow in an artery in
the lung. The blockage (an embolus) can be caused by a blood clot, tumor,
amniotic fluid, or fat in the artery.
Blood clots in the deep veins of the leg are the most common cause
of pulmonary embolism. A clot may break loose from a deep vein in the leg and
travel to a pulmonary artery in the lung, where it can block blood flow.
Pulmonary embolism can be a very serious condition that can result
in death. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolus include:
- Sudden, sharp chest pain.
- Shortness
of breath.
- Chest pain that gets worse with deep breathing or
coughing.
- Coughing up blood or pink, foamy mucus.
- Rapid
heart rate.
- Sweating.
- Anxiety.
Pulmonary embolism is treated in the hospital with monitoring,
oxygen, and anticoagulants to prevent more blood clots.
Last Updated:January 29, 2009
Author:Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Medical Review:Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine & Jeffrey S. Ginsberg, MD - Hematology