Pulmonary Embolism: Prevention Tips
Pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis is a serious medical condition. Blood clot formation is its primary cause. When this clot enters the bloodstream, there’s a high risk for it to reach the lungs. Consequently, the clot hinders the lung arteries and curtails the oxygen and blood flow. Usually, it develops inside the deeper veins in the legs. When detected, the pulmonary embolism treatment must be immediate as it may prove to be fatal without immediate care.
Symptoms
Symptoms’ severity varies with clot location and size. Some report having no symptoms at all. However, problems begin suddenly in some patients.
Often cited signs include:
- Sudden sharp pain or a constricting sensation in the chest
- Dyspnea or rapid breath rate
- Cough with possible traces of blood
- A sensation of dizziness or fainting
- Raised pulse or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling of the lower leg or calf region
- Lowered blood pressure
- Fever and profuse sweating
People usually confuse it with a lung or a heart disorder. An accurate diagnosis can help.
Causes
The cause of most pulmonary embolisms is a clot breaking free from its origin site and travelling to the lung. It occludes the lung arteries. Deep vein thrombosis is an example of a condition where a clot develops deep in the veins of the leg or arm. DVT usually occurs when the blood flow slows down, leading to clot formation.
Some risk factors include:
- Long periods of immobility, such as lengthy travel
- Surgery or trauma to the lower limbs
- Chronic inflammation or infection
- Lifestyle habits like smoking
- Obesity
- Hereditary factors
Efficient DVT treatment is necessary to prevent the clots from travelling to the lungs.
Diagnosis
In most situations, symptoms present in a way that is similar to other health issues. Hence, doctors conduct testing in addition to the primary assessment to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:
- Blood investigations to detect clot markers
- Finger probe assessment to check oxygen level.
- Electrocardiogram for heart rhythm recording
- Chest x-ray to exclude other causes
- Specialised CT scan to view arteries of the lung
- V/Q scan to assess air and blood flow in the lungs
Each of these tests presents indicators that, in turn, help the clinician to make the correct diagnosis.
Pulmonary Embolism Treatment
Treatment must be started instantly in case of large pulmonary emboli. Here are some recommended options for DVT treatment:
- anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clot formation
- thrombolytic therapy to dissolve existing clots
- insertion of a venous filter to prevent clots from reaching the lungs
- surgical clot removal in sporadic cases
The treatment choice is based on the severity of the issue and existing health issues.
How to Prevent It?
Pulmonary embolism prevention entails reducing clot formation risk. Addressing factors responsible for deep vein thrombosis assumes priority. In terms of prevention, the measures include:
- Keeping active with periodic movement breaks
- Eating a wholesome diet
- Drinking fluids, particularly during travel
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Staying within a healthy weight range
- Discussing such things with one’s healthcare provider if there is a personal or family history
Doctors may suggest preventive pulmonary embolism treatment for high-risk patients, usually after extended immobilisation and surgery.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
Recovery time varies. In some cases, recovery may begin within a few days. However, in others, it is a slow process. It extends over several weeks, even months, which also is a time that some experience issues like permanent dyspnea that will need professional attention. However, long-term complications are rare if well-treated.
Also Read : Pulmonary Embolism Treatment: Finding the Best Cardiologist in Hyderabad
Conclusion: Expert Support in DVT Treatment
Dr Raghu is a well-respected DVT treatment expert and can offer guidance regarding its prevention and treatment. His many years of experience play a role in effectively rehabilitating patients’ health and lowering risk through prevention.
