What Is a Pulmonary Embolism? Video 4/31

What Is a Pulmonary Embolism? Video 4 of 31

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks one of the pulmonary arteries.

In most cases, the clot begins in the leg as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) before breaking off and travelling through the bloodstream to the lungs.

When material travels through the bloodstream and blocks another vessel, this is called an embolus.

Pulmonary embolism can cause symptoms such as:

• sudden shortness of breath

• chest pain

• rapid heart rate

• collapse or fainting

In severe cases, pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening and requires urgent diagnosis and treatment.

This video is part of a 31-day Blood Clot Awareness Month series explaining the causes, symptoms and treatment of blood clots.

Blood clots can be life-threatening, but treatable if caught early.

Know the signs. Act fast. Stop the clot.