Overview
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the arteries of the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that travelled from a vein in the leg. It can reduce blood flow and oxygen levels suddenly and can be life-threatening. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate treatment.
Symptoms
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing
- Coughing, sometimes with blood
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Leg swelling, pain or redness, often in one calf
Causes & risk factors
- A clot from a deep vein in the leg (deep vein thrombosis)
- Long periods of immobility, such as long flights or bed rest
- Recent surgery or major injury
- Pregnancy and the weeks after childbirth
- Cancer and some cancer treatments
- Hormone-based contraception or hormone therapy
- Inherited clotting disorders
Treatment & self-care
This is an emergency requiring hospital assessment with imaging and blood tests. Treatment involves clot-dissolving or anticoagulant therapy and supportive oxygen, all delivered and monitored by hospital clinicians. Do not attempt to manage suspected PE at home.
See a doctor urgently if
- Call emergency services now if you have sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or a fast heartbeat
- Seek urgent care for new pain, swelling or redness in one leg
- These symptoms after surgery, a long trip, or during pregnancy need immediate attention
This condition can be an emergency. If any of the signs above are severe or getting worse, go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number — do not wait for an online consultation.