00:10Most people have heard of blood clots in the legs. But what happens if a clot travels to the lungs?
00:17This condition known as pulmonary embolism can become life-threatening if it's not treated
00:23and recognized early. Tonight on Housecall, we're discussing what a blood clot in the lungs actually
00:30feels like, what are the warning signs, and when it's time to seek urgent medical care.
00:36A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, often originating in the deep veins of the legs,
00:43breaks off and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. These symptoms come on suddenly
00:50and can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. Most people commonly experience sudden shortness
00:58of breath. One of the most common symptoms of a pulmonary embolism. Feeling short of breath,
01:05at rest or with minimal activity. Chest pain. This chest pain is often described as sharp
01:12and becomes worse with breathing, moving or coughing. Erasing heart or palpitation.
01:18The heart begins to beat faster to compensate for the lack of blood flow to the lungs. Your
01:25heartbeat can be often more than 100 beats per minute. Coughing up blood or haemoptysis.
01:31Some people develop a cough and occasionally this cough can produce blood. Dizziness or fainting.
01:39In severe cases where the oxygen is low, people experience lightheadedness and lose consciousness.
01:45Sometimes there are warning signs before a clot reaches the legs. These are symptoms of a deep
01:52vein thrombosis. You can have swelling of one leg associated with pain and tenderness in the cough,
02:00warmth in the affected leg or even redness or discoloration in your affected leg.
02:05So who is at risk for pulmonary embolism? Recent surgery or hospitalization. Prolonged travel or
02:15immobility. Pregnancy or the postpartum period. Cancer. Smoking. Or a family history of blood clots.
02:25Even hormonal contraceptives can put you at increased risk of developing a blood clot.
02:31A blood clot in the lungs is a medical emergency. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath,
02:39racing heart, lightheadedness or symptoms of a blood clot in the leg, seek medical attention
02:45immediately. Early treatment and recognition can be life-saving. It's Dr. Mariana Brown for TV6 House
02:54school.
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