Pulmonary embolism


(Pulmonary embolism)



Symptoms, causes


and emergency treatment


⚠️ What is a pulmonary embolism?

One Pulmonary embolism is an acute, potentially life-threatening condition in which a blood clot (embolus) blocks a blood vessel in the lung.

In most cases, this clot originates from a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) the legs and is carried to the lungs via the bloodstream.

👉 Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of thrombosis on our corresponding information page.


🚨 Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism

The symptoms often appear suddenly and can vary in severity:

  • Sudden shortness of breath
  • Chest pain (especially when breathing in)
  • Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Dizziness or circulatory problems
  • Cough, possibly with blood.
  • Feelings of anxiety or restlessness

    • 👉 Important: A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency!

    🧬 Causes and risk factors

    The most common cause is a Thrombosis of the leg veins.

    Other risk factors:

    • Prolonged immobility (e.g., after surgery, travel)
    • Bedridden
    • Cancer
    • pregnancy
    • Hormone therapy (the pill)
    • Overweight
    • Smoke


      • 🔗 Connection with thrombosis

      Pulmonary embolism is often the result of a untreated or undetected thrombosis.

      👉 → More about thrombosis: symptoms, causes and treatment

      Early detection and treatment of thrombosis can significantly reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism.


      🩺 Diagnostics

      If suspected, an immediate examination is carried out in the hospital:

      • CT angiography of the lungs
      • Blood test (D-dimer)
      • Ultrasound of the leg veins
      • ECG


        • 💊 Treatment of pulmonary embolism

        Therapy must be initiated immediately:

        Medication:
        • Anticoagulation (blood thinning)
        • Heparin / DOACs


        In severe cases:
        • Thrombolysis (dissolving the clot)
        • Catheter procedure
        • Intensive care monitoring


        🛡️ Prevention


        The most important measure is the prevention of thrombosis:

        • Regular exercise
        • Compression stockings for at-risk individuals
        • Adequate fluid intake
        • Thrombosis prophylaxis after surgery


          • 🚨 Emergency Notice

          In case of sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or circulatory problems, call emergency services immediately. A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.



          ⚖️ Medical Notice

          The content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Diagnostic and therapeutic decisions should always be made in consultation with a vascular surgeon, phlebologist, or angiologist.