Pulmonary embolism

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary depending on the size of the clot, the affected part of the lungs and the presence of underlying diseases:
Sudden shortness of breath: Appears suddenly, even at rest.
Chest pain: Often acute, exacerbated by deep breathing, similar to a heart attack.
Cough: Sometimes accompanied by blood.
Cardiovascular disorders: rapid pulse, low blood pressure or syncope.
Other symptoms: Dizziness, profuse sweating, bluish discolouration of the lips (cyanosis), or swelling of a leg.

The main cause of pulmonary embolism is the formation of a clot (thrombus) in a deep vein in the legs or pelvis, which migrates to the lungs. However, other less common obstructions, such as air bubbles or tumour fragments, may also be involved.

Certain factors increase the risk of developing PE:

• Family or personal history: past thrombosis or embolisms.
• Prolonged immobility: Bed rest, prolonged travel.
• Pregnancy and post-partum: pressure on pelvic veins.
• Underlying diseases: Cancer, heart disease, obesity.
• Hormonal factors: contraception or hormone treatment.

Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, blood tests (D-dimer levels to assess the likelihood of a clot) and medical imaging examinations, such as :
Pulmonary angioscanner: reference in cases of high suspicion, to visualise clots
Ventilation/perfusion scintigraphy: an alternative in cases of allergy to iodine.
Ultrasound of the lower limbs: to look for associated DVT

Treatment is aimed at preventing the clot from worsening and new clots from forming:
Anticoagulants: First-line medication to prevent the clot from spreading.
Thrombolytics: Used in emergencies to dissolve clots.
Surgery: If drug treatment fails, embolectomy or filter placement in the vena cava.

Untreated pulmonary embolism can lead to :
Chronic pulmonary hypertension: due to high pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
Heart failure
Increased risk of recurrence: need for regular monitoring.

Preventive measures include :
Regular physical activity: reduce prolonged periods of inactivity. Early mobilisation after surgery.
Venous compression: wear compression stockings if the risk is high.
Adequate hydration: avoid thickening of the blood.

The symptoms of PE should never be ignored. It is crucial to seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, unexplained shortness of breath, even if you are in apparent good health.
• Intense chest pain, often mistaken for a heart attack.
• A persistent cough, especially if accompanied by blood.
• Unilateral swelling or pain in one leg, potential indicators of venous thrombosis.

Hôpital de La Tour offers cutting-edge medical expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism. Thanks to modern equipment and a multidisciplinary team, patients benefit from personalised care, considerably reducing the risk of complications.

Qu’est-ce qu’une embolie pulmonaire ?
C’est une obstruction des artères pulmonaires due à un caillot sanguin.

Quels sont les premiers symptômes de l’embolie pulmonaire ?
Essoufflement soudain, douleurs thoraciques aiguës et toux.

Quelles sont les causes principales de l’embolie pulmonaire ?
Les caillots issus d’une TVP, les fractures ou certaines interventions chirurgicales.

Comment se fait le diagnostic pulmonaire ?
Par analyses de sang et imageries spécialisées comme l’angioscanner.

Quels sont les traitements disponibles ?
Anticoagulants, thrombolytiques, chirurgie ou filtres veineux en cas d’urgence.

Peut-on prévenir l’embolie pulmonaire ?
Oui, grâce à l’activité physique, l’hydratation et les bas de compression.

L’embolie pulmonaire est-elle toujours fatale ?
Non, une prise en charge rapide réduit considérablement la mortalité.

Que faire en cas de suspicion d’embolie pulmonaire ?
En cas d’essoufflement soudain, douleur thoracique ou gonflement d’une jambe. Consulter immédiatement un professionnel de santé.