What is it
Pulmonary embolism consists of obstruction of the pulmonary arteries caused by an embolus, that is, a fragment of thrombus.
The thrombus, which can vary in size, generally originates in the deep veins of the lower limbs (deep vein thrombosis) and from this site, through the bloodstream and the thrust of the heart, reaches the lungs.
From the point of view of frequency, pulmonary embolism is today the third among acute cardiovascular diseases. In our country it affects one person in a hundred thousand. About 10 percent of those who have a pulmonary embolism die within thirty days of diagnosis.
Risk factors
The risk factors of pulmonary embolism are very similar to those of deep thrombosis, since it is a complication of it.
- old age
- familiarity
- presence of diabetes
- Taking birth control pills
- pregnancy and puerperium
- presence of trauma (especially fractures to the lower limbs)
- previous episodes of myocardial infarction and heart failure
- Previous thromboembolic episodes
- presence of tumors
- have undergone surgery and / or long periods of immobilization
Symptoms
Unfortunately, embolism is not easy to diagnose. Its symptoms are generally non-specific, meaning they are similar to those of several other cardiorespiratory diseases.
However, the most common signs are:
- presence of chest, localized or diffuse pain
- onset of dyspnea (the feeling of shortness of breath)
- appearance of tachycardia
- cardiovascular collapse
- presence of swelling and redness in the vessels of the neck.
Diagnosis
To make a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism doctors may prescribe: – lung scintigraphy – contrast angiography.
Therapies
Treatment of pulmonary embolism is based on anticoagulant drugs and thrombolytics. Thanks to them it is possible to obtain excellent results, and often avoid having to resort to surgery to remove the embolus.
Prevention
Prevention of pulmonary embolism is identical to that of deep vein thrombosis.
Persons who fall under the risk factors listed above should therefore pay attention to:
- Always choose comfortable clothes and shoes
- devote, at least once a day, half an hour of time to physical exercises involving the lower limbs
- quitting smoking
- follow a healthy and balanced diet
- drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day and minimize alcohol intake
- Avoid exposing your legs to the sun and, in winter, do not expose them to direct sources of heat (radiators, fireplaces).
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.