Watch: What is a Pulmonary Embolism| PE | Dr. Arash Padidar
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Consultation Appointment (408) 918-0405
Located in San Jose, Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one or more arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot traveling from another part of the body, such as the legs or arms. While not always fatal, it is a serious complication of deep vein thrombosis and can be life-threatening.
Causes of Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary embolism can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk:
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged bed rest or travel
- Family history of blood-clotting disorders
- History of cancer or chemotherapy treatment
- Trauma or injury to a vein
- Surgery
- Smoking
- Oral contraceptive use
- Hormone-replacement therapy
Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism
Symptoms vary based on the blockage's severity and include:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain radiating to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw
- Cough
- Clammy skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Excessive sweating
- Anxiety
- Fever
- Swelling in one leg
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism
Diagnosing a pulmonary embolism can be challenging but may include:
- Chest X-ray
- CT scan
- Lung scan
- Blood tests
- Pulmonary angiogram
- Ultrasound
- MRI scan
Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism
Treatment usually occurs in a hospital to monitor vital signs and may include:
- Anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication
- Thrombolytic therapy
- Surgical placement of an inferior vena cava filter
Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism
Preventive measures include:
- Maintaining physical activity
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Wearing compression stockings to improve leg circulation
For concerns or symptoms of pulmonary embolism, seek medical attention promptly at our San Jose location in Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley.
Benefits of MISS
- Safe, with high standards of care
- No incision, minimal pain, and no scarring
- No general anesthesia required
- Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
- Fast recovery, typically around two hours
- Cost-effective
