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Pulmonary Embolism and Deep Vein Thrombosis
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially lethal condition caused by a blockage of one or more of the pulmonary arteries by a blood clot. PE is the third most common cause of death in the United States, with 650,000 cases each year. It is also the first or second most common cause of unexpected death in most age groups. Symptoms of PE can include shortness of breath, restlessness, chest pain, fainting or light-headedness. Because of its vague and non-specific symptoms, more cases of PE are missed and PE is most frequently diagnosed by autopsy.1
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a clot that forms primarily in a deep vein, predominantly in the lower leg. Weakness and swelling of the legs or ankles are symptoms often associated with a DVT. DVTs can develop progressively for weeks, months or even years, and are a significant risk factor in developing PE. DVTs are considered a precursor to PE as 90 percent of PEs stem from a DVT.1 Approximately 5 million cases of DVT occur each year in the United States.2
Risk factors for PE and DVT may include the following:
- Age
- Prolonged bed rest or inactivity, such as sitting for a extended period during long trips in planes, cars or trains
- Oral contraceptive use or hormone therapy
- Surgery (especially pelvic surgery)
- Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Massive trauma
- Burns
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart surgery
- Fracture of the hips or femur
- Certain clotting disorders
- History of a DVT
References
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