Pulmonary embolism is a clinical syndrome caused by endogenous or exogenous emboli obstructing the pulmonary arteries or branches. The main cause is deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities, and the symptoms are not typical enough, mainly manifesting as shortness of breath, chest pain, hemoptysis, and so on.
Deep vein thrombosis is the main source of thrombus causing pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis occurs in the deep veins of the lower limbs or pelvis, and dislodges into the pulmonary arteries and their branches with the circulation of blood flow. Other emboli include amniotic fluid embolism, air embolism or fat embolism.
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism are more varied and there are no specific recognizable symptoms. In some patients, the embolism is not severe and may be asymptomatic; in others, symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or hemoptysis may be present, accompanied by cold, clammy skin, irregular heartbeat, and dizziness.
After pulmonary embolism, timely and effective treatment is the key to prevent complications and death. Anti-coagulant and thrombolytic drugs, such as warfarin, low molecular heparin, urokinase, streptokinase, etc., can be used, but need to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions; surgical thrombectomy, percutaneous catheterization interventions, etc., and whether the need for surgery needs to be evaluated by a professional doctor.
Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening emergency and should be treated promptly. Doctors will formulate a personalized treatment plan according to the severity of the condition to maximize life-saving and prevent serious complications.