Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolus is a blood clot that travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, blocking the flow of blood (1). This can be a serious and even fatal condition (2). It's especially dangerous for patients confined to bed; for those who have recently had
surgery; for
cancer patients; and for people who have a heart or breathing problem, such as a prior heart attack or
asbestosis (1).
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A pulmonary embolism is difficult to
diagnose, because the
symptoms can resemble other diseases (1). In some cases of pulmonary embolism, there are no symptoms (2). Only in-depth medical testing can make an accurate
diagnosis (2). These symptoms include a sudden shortness of breath even while sitting down (3). Sometimes there is chest pain that feels like a heart attack, and it's sometimes made worse by deep breathing (3). Some patients have a cough that brings up blood-streaked mucus, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and lightheadedness or fainting (3).
Doctors treat a pulmonary embolism with blood thinners, either injected or by mouth (3). If the situation is urgent, special "clot busting" medications are used, but these can have dangerous side effects (1). In some cases, a filter is installed in the large arteries of the lungs to prevent blood clots from reaching them. Pulmonary embolectomy (removal of the embolus) is rarely done, but is an option for urgent treatment of pulmonary shock (3).
If a person with asbestosis suffers a pulmonary embolism or any other health problem, the patient should make certain their doctor is aware of their breathing problems. It can make a difference in how they are treated (3).