Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Embolism (Blood Clots in the Lungs)

Illustration of the chest and lungs

If you have sudden shortness of breath, chest pain or are coughing up blood, call 911.

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that blocks an artery in the lungs, usually after breaking loose from a clot in the leg (deep vein thrombosis). Risk factors include recent surgery or hospital stays, long periods of sitting, cancer, pregnancy, estrogen-containing medications and inherited clotting conditions.

Warning signs:

  • Sudden shortness of breath
  • Chest pain that is worse with a deep breath
  • Fast heartbeat, lightheadedness or fainting
  • Coughing up blood
  • Leg swelling or pain
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Follow-Up Care

Our role after a pulmonary embolism

Most PEs are diagnosed and treated first in the hospital. We provide follow-up care to help you recover and lower your risk of another clot:

  • Planning the type and length of blood-thinner treatment
  • Looking for the cause of the clot
  • Evaluating shortness of breath that lingers months after a PE, including testing for chronic clots and pulmonary hypertension
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation to rebuild stamina

See also: Pulmonary Hypertension · Shortness of Breath

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