# Pulmonary Embolism

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**What is it?**</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A blood clot in the lung.</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">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.</span>

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**Symptoms:**</span>

- ##### 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.