Pulmonary Embolism Specialists in Saket, Delhi

What is Pulmonary Embolism?

Pulmonary embolism is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which a blood clot, usually originating in the deep veins of the legs, travels through the bloodstream and lodges in an artery in the lungs, blocking blood flow to part of the lung tissue. This sudden obstruction reduces the amount of oxygen that can be delivered to the blood and places significant strain on the heart's right side, which must pump against increased resistance. The severity of pulmonary embolism ranges from small clots causing minimal symptoms to massive clots that cause sudden collapse and death. It is considered a medical emergency requiring rapid diagnosis through imaging such as CT pulmonary angiography and prompt treatment with blood-thinning medication to prevent further clot formation and allow the body to gradually dissolve the existing clot. Prevention in high-risk situations, such as after major surgery or during prolonged immobility, is a key focus of medical care.

Causes of Pulmonary Embolism

Most commonly caused by a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis, known as deep vein thrombosis, which then breaks free and travels to the lungs. Risk factors include prolonged immobility such as long flights or bed rest after surgery, recent major surgery or trauma, cancer, pregnancy, use of oestrogen-containing contraceptives, obesity, and inherited clotting disorders. Long-duration travel and hospitalisation are particularly recognised triggers for clot formation.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Sudden shortness of breath, sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, rapid heartbeat, coughing up blood, lightheadedness or fainting, leg swelling or pain often in one leg, excessive sweating, sense of anxiety or impending doom

Treatment & Types of Pulmonary Embolism in Saket, Delhi

Treatment involves anticoagulant medication to prevent further clot growth and allow the body's natural processes to gradually break down the existing clot, typically continued for several months depending on the underlying cause. In severe cases with significant strain on the heart, clot-dissolving thrombolytic therapy or a catheter-based procedure to remove the clot may be used. Long-term management includes identifying and addressing underlying risk factors to reduce the chance of recurrence.

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