We all know what bruises are – cuts which do not tear the skin but cause injuries inside. Something similar to that happens when you get hit hard, but there is neither a cut nor a bruise – you get an internal blood clot. It’s bluish or blackish in colour and is painful. It stays long after the pain subsides.
Minor blood clots aren’t something that you should worry about. But, now imagine that one of these clots have travelled up to your lungs and now you have a blood clot in the lungs. It’s called Pulmonary Embolism.
Let’s know more about it.
What is Pulmonary Embolism?
Our lungs are filled with air sacs which are separated by thin membranes. These membranes are filled with millions of blood capillaries. If even one of these tiny capillaries get clotted, we call it a blood clot in the lungs. Such a complication is called Pulmonary Embolism.
In fact, the clot can be due to other substances also like fat, amniotic fluid, cancerous cells, air bubbles etc.
What causes blood clot in the lungs?
There are no conclusive factors that cause blood clot in the lungs but there are certain factors which increase a person’s risk of getting a Pulmonary Embolism.
- Deep, but minor blood clots from another part of the body may can be taken away by the blood stream.
- Smoking
- Fracture or Surgery
- Being bedridden or paralysed
- Lack of movement for a prolonged time like in long flight journeys.
- Obesity
- High level of estrogen during pregnancy
- Some forms of cancer
- History of heart Disease
What are the symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism?
If you have the following symptoms, consider getting checked for the presence of blood clot in the lungs:
- Chest pain, it may get worse with exertion
- Coughing, may be accompanied by blood
- Breathlessness
- Excessive sweating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness
A blood clot in your lungs might eventually put a stop to your entire circulatory system. It might become fatal without much notice. So, if you feel the symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
How can Pulmonary Embolism be treated?
Depending on the size and seriousness of the situation, Pulmonary Embolism can be cured by medicines or surgery.
Medicine
Anticoagulatory medicines will prevent the formation of any new clots while thrombolytics will dissolve the existing one.
Surgery
A thin suction tube might be used by the doctor to suck out the clot. In the cases of great Emergency, the clot may be removed via an open surgery.
Any treatment method for removing blood clot from the lungs is often risky. This is why the your best option will be to prevent the complication.
How can you prevent Pulmonary Embolism?
To prevent blood clot in the lungs try to avoid the risk factors.
- Be active.
- Don’t stay idle to too long. Elevate your legs while sleeping.
- Quit smoking
- Avoid wearing very tight pieces of clothing or something with a tight elastic.
Now that you know what the causes, symptoms and treatments of pulmonary embolism, do not risk your health. Approach your doctor straight away to ensure that your health is in the best condition possible.
ABOUT THE HOSPITAL
Sai Sanjeevini Multi Speciality Hospitals a unit of Singapanga Healthcare Pvt. Ltd has been providing health services to the people in need for the last 14 years. This health care organisation combines practical, proven research, cutting edge procedures and state-of-the-art treatment to produce excellent medical and lifestyle outcome for our patients. Our hospital and medical staff provide innovative medical care in a friendly, compassionate, community environment conducive to patient recuperation in a family atmosphere.
About The Doctor
Dr. M.Ravindranath is a reputed Pulmonologist in Hyderabad and has an experience of 12 years in this field. Dr. M.Ravindranath practices at Hyderabad Chest Clinic in Dilsukh Nagar, Hyderabad and Sai Sanjeevini Hospitals in Kothapet, Hyderabad. His knowledge of pulmonology has made him one of the best in the city and most patients visit him and go home, happy. So Book your Appointment now.