How Long Before a Pulmonary Embolism Kills You?
“How long before a pulmonary embolism kills you?”
Sudden chest pain with blood in cough? This might be a sign of pulmonary embolism (PE). Now, this question might be your first thought, and the answer is that every minute counts!
A pulmonary embolism is considered a life-threatening condition; it is important to understand its causes, signs, and treatments. Read this article to find out more!
What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a sudden blockage in a lung artery, causing issues with blood oxygen level and flow of blood. This usually happens when a clot from another part of your body, such as your leg or arm, moves through your vein to your lungs.
Pulmonary embolism symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are some common symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough or blood in cough
- Chest pain that worsens when you take a deep breath
- Increases heart rate
- Sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Dizziness or nausea (in some cases)
Pulmonary embolism can cause pulmonary infarction (lung damage), pulmonary hypertension, and, in some cases, heart failure, which can be fatal. Your chances of survival depend on how fast you get treated. If you feel these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately!
What Causes Pulmonary Embolisms (PE)?
A pulmonary embolism can occur when a blood clot (usually from the leg) breaks free and gets stuck in your lung. These clots in the legs cause a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Following are the pulmonary embolism risk factors.
- Thrombophilia ( a condition that increases the risk of blood clot formation)
- Protein S deficiency
- Smoking
- Inactivity ( during long flights or drives)
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Birth control pills
- Estrogen supplements from hormone replacement therapy
- Certain medical conditions like cancer, heart or lung disease
Understanding these warning signs can help you be more aware of your body and take steps to prevent PE.
Understanding the Speed of a Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition and can be fatal. The time it takes for a PE to become deadly varies greatly from person to person.
The main factor that determines the speed is the size of the blood clot. Large or multiple clots can block a major artery in the lung, which can be critical. Smaller clots may partially block blood flow, allowing some oxygen to pass through.
It’s also important to consider where the clot is located. Clots in main pulmonary arteries are more dangerous than clots in smaller blood vessels.
How Do Doctors Diagnose and Treat a Pulmonary Embolism?
Once you have talked about your signs and symptoms, a medical professional may recommend the necessary test to diagnose a pulmonary embolism.
- Blood tests
- CT angiogram
- Ultrasound
- Echo-cardiogram
- Chest X-ray
The main treatment of PE is anticoagulants ( blood thinners); they decrease your blood’s ability to clot and stop new clots from forming. Your doctor might also recommend using compression stockings. People with DVT use these; they compress your leg to prevent your blood from pooling.
If it’s a more serious case of PE or other treatments are not working, your provider will recommend using a catheter or thrombolytic therapy to remove the blood clot.
How To Prevent A Pulmonary Embolism
It is possible to prevent a pulmonary embolism from happening, here’s what you can do:
- Getting physically active
- Elevating your leg for at least 30 minutes every day
- Wearing compression stockings
- Reduce stress
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Balanced diet
- Maintaining a proper weight
Live a Long And Healthy Life
Pulmonary embolism can be fatal without treatment. Always take your health seriously, and it is important to seek medical health immediately if you notice signs of a pulmonary embolism.
Take anticoagulants and increase your movement to prevent PE. With the right treatment and care, you live a long and healthy life.
