A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that travels to the lungs. Often, the clot forms in another part of the body, usually in the veins of the legs. Large clots can be fatal. The January 11, 2006, issue of JAMA includes an article about diagnosing pulmonary embolism. This Patient Page is based on one previously published in the December 3, 2003, issue of JAMA.
Sudden chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Cough with blood
Lightheadedness and fainting
Excessive sweating
Bluish tint to skin
Anxiety
Recent surgery
Long periods of immobility (such as bed rest because of an illness)
Cancer
Heart problems
Older age
Taking oral contraceptives
Previous stroke or heart attack
Pulmonary embolism can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are broad and resemble those of other diseases. Results of the patient's history and physical examination are very important. Some other tests that may be done include
Chest x-ray
Electrocardiogram
Arterial blood gases—measurement of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
D-dimer assay—a blood test for evidence of blood clots
Ultrasound of the legs—sound wave images to detect blood clots in the veins
Spiral computed tomography—detailed computerized x-ray imaging
Lung scan—test of blood flow through the lungs
Pulmonary arteriogram—injections to show the arteries in the lungs to detect blood clots
Grahic Jump Location
Immediate treatment usually includes giving injectable anticoagulants (blood thinners)—such as heparin, followed by warfarin (an anticoagulant taken by mouth)—to stabilize the clot, prevent additional clots, and restore normal blood flow in the lungs. Oxygen and sedatives may be given to make the patient more comfortable. If the clot is large, thrombolytic ("clot busting") drugs may be needed to remove it.
American Heart Associationhttp://www.americanheart.org
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institutehttp://www.nhlbi.nih.gov
To find this and other JAMA Patient Pages, go to the Patient Page link on JAMA's Web site at http://www.jama.com. A previous Patient Page on thrombophlebitis was published in the August 10, 2005, issue.
Sources: American Heart Association; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
The JAMA Patient Page is a public service of JAMA. The information and recommendations appearing on this page are appropriate in most instances, but they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis. For specific information concerning your personal medical condition, JAMA suggests that you consult your physician. This page may be photocopied noncommercially by physicians and other health care professionals to share with patients. To purchase bulk reprints, call 718/946-7424.
TOPIC: LUNG DISEASE
This article was corrected on 1/16/06, prior to publication of the correction in print.
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