Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an artery in the lung is blocked due to a blood clot, which usually develops in a vein in the leg. When the blood clot breaks off, it travels through the bloodstream and reaches the lungs, where it gets stuck. Pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening without immediate medical treatment.
The symptoms of pulmonary embolism may include coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. People with pulmonary embolism often continue their medications for six months or longer. The expertise of a pulmonologist is usually needed when it comes to the assessment and management of lung issues in patients with pulmonary embolism.
