A little knowledge goes a long way! This maxim is especially true when it comes to protecting your health and knowing how to prevent, manage, and get the proper care for conditions affecting your lungs, respiratory function, and overall wellness.
A pulmonary embolism, which starts out as a blood clot elsewhere in the body, can present a life-threatening emergency. While most often due to a condition called deep vein thrombosis, or a clot that originates in the leg, breaks off, and travels to the lungs, it’s not always the case. Less frequently responsible, but no less concerning, other sources of pulmonary embolism may include a fat embolus, an amniotic fluid embolus, air bubbles, or a deep vein thrombosis in the upper body.
According to a 2020 article published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the mortality rate from a pulmonary embolism after years of decline is trending upwards. Yet, blood clots are often preventable, and with early diagnosis and care, most people recover.
At the office of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, we firmly believe that patient information and education play a vital role in disease prevention and charting a path to wellness.
Your risk for a pulmonary embolism and what you can do to lower it
Although factors like genetics, hormone use, pregnancy, surgery, injury to a vein, inactivity, and cancer can raise one’s risk for a blood clot and pulmonary embolism, the following simple steps and precautions can help lower the chances:
To support healthy circulation and prevent dangerous clots, it’s also essential to get up and get moving as soon as possible after an illness or surgery. For some people, mechanical measures like compression stockings, pneumatic and compression devices are recommended to keep the blood in the legs moving.
It’s vital to get the care you need to protect your health and prevent a pulmonary embolism. Effective treatment to address clots and prevent additional ones from forming can include medications, filters to keep clots from getting to the lungs, and surgical procedures.
Dedicated, skilled, and compassionate care
At North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, you can rest assured your health is in the best of hands. We provide focused, individualized care while working with other members of your healthcare team to help prevent pulmonary emboli, support recovery, and lower your risk for future problems.