Pulmonary Embolism

What is it?

A blood clot in the lung.

It occurs when a clot, usually in the leg or pelvis, breaks free and gets stuck in a lung artery (pulmonary artery). The clot interrupts blood flow, making it more difficult for your lungs to provide oxygen to the rest of your body.

Symptoms:

• Sudden, sharp chest pain often with shortness of breath

• Sudden, unexplained shortness of breath, even without pain

• Cough that may produce blood-streaked spit

• Rapid heartbeat with shortness of breath

• Fainting

• Severe anxiety

• Unexplained sweating

• Swelling of one leg only, caused by a blood clot in the leg

Pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening. If you have symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, seek emergency medical help immediately.