Heart problems are unexpected and can cause a lot of distress. The ailment can take a rather severe form, starting with simple signs and symptoms. Pulmonary embolism is a heart problem where a blood clot is created that obstructs the blood flow to the artery in the lungs. Usually, the clot starts in a deep vein in the legs and then moves on to the lungs. Let us know more about Pulmonary embolism, and the treatment suggested.
Symptoms
Pulmonary embolism could be fatal unless prompt action is taken. Here are some common signs and symptoms that suggest you could be facing the issue:
- Shortness of breath- Catching your breath may be difficult even when resting. The problem aggravates when doing any physical activity.
- Chest pain- You get the feeling that you have a heart attack. The pain is very severe and increases when you take a deep breath, cough, or bend.
- Fainting- If your heart rate or blood pressure drops, you could pass out. Contact pulmonary embolism specialists when that happens
Some other signs that you could experience are:
- Cough with blood-streaked mucus
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Sweating
- Leg pain or swelling
- Discolored skin or Cyanosis
Risk Factors
Certain problems may increase the chances of having a Pulmonary embolism. These could be:
- Heart diseases
- Cancer
- Surgeries
- COVID-19
- Any disorders that could cause clotting
- Smoking
- Being obese
- Estrogen taken through birth control pills
You must prepare a list of the following things when you visit the doctor for consultation.
- A detailed description of the symptoms
- Discuss about past medical problems and any recent surgeries
- Recent trip details where you have to sit for long times
- History of any past diseases affecting your family
- All the medicines you are taking for any problem
Treatment
Once the aortic stenosis specialists have confirmed that you suffer from Pulmonary Embolism, the following treatments are suggested:
- Medicines- If the issue is in the nascent stages, the doctors may suggest blood thinners. Also known as anticoagulants, they would stop the existing clots from growing further. They could also suggest clot dissolvers or thrombolytics, so the clots go away on their own.
- Clot removal surgery- If the clot is large, the healthcare provider can remove it. He will use a thin, flexible catheter that is then threaded through the blood vessels.
- Vein filter surgery- The catheter could also be used to place a filter in the Vena Cava, the body’s main vein. This filter can stop the clots from going to the lungs. In some cases, the filter could be removed when it is no longer required. The vein filter surgery is done for people who cannot take anticoagulants.
Summing up
Pulmonary embolism could be dangerous if not taken care of on time. Contact a reputed heart specialist if you face any of the above symptoms. Dr. Raghu has an experience of more than two decades in the field. He can suggest the correct treatment and conduct any level of surgery if required. With his expert advice, your heart issues would be gone in no time.
