Medical experts have warned that pulmonary embolism is a highly dangerous and potentially fatal condition that occurs when a blood clot blocks one of the arteries supplying blood to the lungs, disrupting normal blood flow.
According to health specialists, delayed diagnosis and lack of immediate treatment can lead to serious complications, including death.
Doctors explained that pulmonary arteries are responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the lungs. When a blood clot forms and obstructs one of these arteries, the condition is known as pulmonary embolism.
In many cases, the clot originates in the deep veins of the legs, a condition medically referred to as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), before traveling through the bloodstream to the lungs.
Health experts said one of the most common symptoms of pulmonary embolism is sudden shortness of breath, which may worsen even during mild physical activity. Severe chest pain is another major symptom and may intensify while breathing deeply, coughing, or bending, sometimes resembling the symptoms of a heart attack.
Doctors added that rapid heartbeat, dizziness, anxiety, excessive sweating, fever, and coughing up blood are also warning signs associated with the condition. They noted that symptoms can vary in severity, particularly in patients already suffering from heart or lung diseases.
Medical professionals stressed that pulmonary embolism should be treated as a medical emergency and urged people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the clot or restore blood flow when medication alone is ineffective.
Experts also emphasized preventive measures, encouraging people to maintain an active lifestyle. Regular walking and exercise can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of clot formation. The use of compression stockings may also help by improving blood flow in the legs and lowering the risk of DVT.
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Health specialists further warned that obesity, excess body weight, and smoking significantly increase the likelihood of blood clots. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and undergoing routine medical checkups can play a key role in preventing the silent but dangerous disease.
