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Vascular Diseases: Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
  

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

A dangerous complication of a DVT is a pulmonary embolism (PE). This occurs when a blood clot breaks free from the deep vein and travels through the blood stream blocking blood flow to the lung. A large pulmonary embolism can be fatal. 


Signs & Symptoms

Shortness of breath/pain with deep breathing

Rapid heart rate/rapid breathing

Coughing up blood

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagnosis

Physician's Examination infoA health care provider investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease. It generally follows the taking of the medical history - an account of the symptoms as experienced by the patient. Together with the medical history, the physical examination aids in determining the correct diagnosis and devising the treatment plan. This data then becomes part of the medical record.

Bloodwork infoA laboratory analysis performed on a blood sample that is usually extracted from a vein in the arm using a needle, or via fingerprick.

Ultrasound infoA form of medical ultrasonography (medical application of ultrasound technology) to visualize internal anatomical structures. It uses transmission and reflection of ultrasound waves to visualise the aorta from outside the body (with the help of gel which helps transmission of the sound waves).

Venogram infoA test to look at the veins in the body. A dye is injected which enhances the veins. A series of X-rays are then taken.

Magnetic Resonance 
Angiography (MRA)infoMagnetic Resonance Angiogram is a minimally invasive test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical problems. MRA uses magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of the major blood vessels throughout the body. Sometimes contrast material is used to enhance the blood vessels. Both blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel wall can be seen..

CT Angiography (CTA) infoComputerized tomographic angiography is a minimally invasive test which combines a CT scan (X-rays and computerized images) and angiography to show detailed images of the blood vessels in the body.

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Treatment

Stop Smoking

Maintain your blood sugar

Control your blood pressure

Lower your cholesterol levels

Bed rest and elevation of the extremity

Anticoagulant (blood thinner) medication

Thrombolytic/Thrombin Inhibitors (medicine that breaks up blood clots)

Vena Cava Filter

Compression Stockings