Pulmonary Embolism

What is Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot (embolism) travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. Most commonly, PE results from deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a clot that forms in the legs or pelvis and moves to the pulmonary arteries in the lungs.

A large or multiple clots can severely limit oxygen flow, causing serious complications, organ damage, or even sudden death. Immediate medical attention is critical for anyone experiencing symptoms of PE.

Risk Factors

Many of the same factors that increase the risk of DVT also raise the risk of PE, including:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – The leading cause of PE.
• Prolonged immobility – Long periods of sitting, bed rest, or travel reduce circulation.
• Surgery or trauma – Especially orthopedic and abdominal procedures that limit mobility.
• Blood clotting disorders – Genetic or acquired conditions that increase clot risk.
• Cancer and chemotherapy – Certain cancers and treatments increase clot formation.
• Pregnancy and postpartum period – Hormonal changes can raise the risk of blood clots.
• Obesity – Excess weight increases pressure on veins.
• Smoking – Damages blood vessels and raises clotting risk.
• Birth control pills or hormone therapy – Can increase the likelihood of clotting.
• Personal or family history of PE or DVT – Prior clotting issues can raise future risks.

Symptoms

Pulmonary embolism symptoms can appear suddenly and require immediate medical attention. Common signs include:

• Sudden shortness of breath (even at rest)
• Sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Coughing up blood
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
• Cold, clammy, or bluish skin (in severe cases)

A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Treatment

The primary goal of PE treatment is to dissolve or remove the clot while preventing future clot formation.

Emergency and Medical Management

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants) – Help prevent clot growth and new clots from forming.
• Thrombolytic therapy ("clot-busting" drugs) – Used in life-threatening cases to rapidly dissolve clots.
• Oxygen therapy – Supports breathing and oxygen levels if PE has affected lung function.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

For severe cases, interventional procedures may be needed:

• Catheter-directed thrombolysis – A thin catheter delivers clot-dissolving medication directly into the blocked lung artery.
• Pulmonary thrombectomy – A minimally invasive procedure that physically removes the clot from the lungs.
• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement – A small filter inserted into the inferior vena cava (the main vein returning blood to the heart) to catch clots before they reach the lungs (typically used for patients who cannot take blood thinners).

AtlantiCare’s vascular specialists provide rapid, expert intervention for PE, using the latest life-saving treatments to restore circulation and prevent complications.

Prevention

Since most cases of PE originate from DVT, preventing blood clots is the best way to lower PE risk. Key prevention strategies include:

• Stay active – Avoid long periods of immobility; move and stretch regularly.
• Wear compression stockings – Helps improve blood circulation, especially for those at risk.
• Stay hydrated – Proper hydration reduces blood thickening.
• Quit smoking – Smoking damages blood vessels and increases clot risk.
• Maintain a healthy weight – Reduces strain on the vascular system.
• Manage medical conditions – Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes to support overall vascular health.
• Discuss prevention with your doctor – If you are at high risk (recent surgery, travel, or a clotting disorder), your provider may recommend preventive blood thinners, movement exercises, or other strategies.

Early intervention and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing PE and improve long-term vascular health.