Pulmonary Arteries Embolism

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 8 min read
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Pulmonary Arteries Embolism (PAE) is a serious condition where one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a clot. This condition can lead to severe complications, making it crucial to understand its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, drugs, and surgical options. Types...

For severe symptoms, danger signs, pregnancy, child illness, or sudden worsening, seek urgent medical care.

বাংলা রোগী নোট এখনো যোগ করা হয়নি। পোস্ট এডিটরে “RX Bangla Patient Mode” বক্স থেকে সহজ বাংলা সারাংশ যোগ করুন।

এই তথ্য শিক্ষা ও সচেতনতার জন্য। এটি ডাক্তারি পরীক্ষা, রোগ নির্ণয় বা প্রেসক্রিপশনের বিকল্প নয়।

Article Summary

Pulmonary Arteries Embolism (PAE) is a serious condition where one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a clot. This condition can lead to severe complications, making it crucial to understand its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, drugs, and surgical options. Types of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism: There are mainly two types of PAE: Thrombotic Pulmonary Embolism: Caused by blood clots formed within...

Key Takeaways

  • This article explains Common Causes of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism: in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism: in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Diagnostic Tests for Pulmonary Arteries Embolism: in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Treatments for Pulmonary Arteries Embolism: in simple medical language.
Educational health guideWritten for patient understanding and clinical awareness.
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Emergency safety firstUrgent warning signs are highlighted below.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice

These warning signs are general safety guidance. Local emergency numbers and clinical judgment should always come first.

  • Severe symptoms, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness.
  • New weakness, severe pain, high fever, or symptoms after a serious injury.
  • Any symptom that feels urgent, unusual, or unsafe for the patient.
1

Emergency now

Use emergency care for severe, sudden, rapidly worsening, or life-threatening symptoms.

2

See a doctor

Book a professional medical evaluation if symptoms persist, worsen, recur often, affect daily activities, or occur in a high-risk patient.

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Learn safely

Use this article to understand possible causes, tests, treatment options, prevention, and questions to ask your clinician.

Pulmonary Arteries Embolism (PAE) is a serious condition where one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a clot. This condition can lead to severe complications, making it crucial to understand its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, drugs, and surgical options.

Types of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

There are mainly two types of PAE:

  1. Thrombotic Pulmonary Embolism: Caused by blood clots formed within the blood vessels.
  2. Embolic Pulmonary Embolism: Arises from material traveling to the lungs from other parts of the body, commonly blood clots from the legs.

Common Causes of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

  1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots formed in deep veins.
  2. Prolonged Immobility: Long periods of inactivity can contribute to clot formation.
  3. Surgery: Especially orthopedic surgeries like joint replacements.
  4. Smoking: Increases the risk of clot formation.
  5. Obesity: Excessive weight puts tendon. সহজ বাংলা: মাংসপেশি/টেনডনে টান।" data-rx-term="strain" data-rx-definition="A strain is injury to a muscle or tendon. সহজ বাংলা: মাংসপেশি/টেনডনে টান।">strain on the circulatory system.
  6. Certain Medications: Such as birth control pills.
  7. Family History: Genetic factors may predispose individuals to clotting.
  8. Cancer: Tumors can release substances promoting clot formation.
  9. Heart Conditions: Such as atrial fibrillation.
  10. Pregnancy: Increases pressure on blood vessels.
  11. Air Travel: Long flights can contribute to clot formation.
  12. Inflammatory Conditions: Such as vasculitis.
  13. Age: Risk increases with age.
  14. Trauma: Especially fractures that may release fat emboli.
  15. Varicose Veins: Increases the risk of clot formation.
  16. Genetic Disorders: Such as Factor V Leiden mutation.
  17. Estrogen Therapy: Hormone replacement can contribute to clotting.
  18. Smoking: Nicotine can constrict blood vessels.
  19. Infections: Certain infections can lead to clot formation.
  20. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake increases the risk of clots.

Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

  1. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during exertion.
  2. Chest Pain: Sharp or stabbing pain in the chest.
  3. Rapid Heartbeat: Increased heart rate.
  4. Cough: Often with bloody or pink sputum.
  5. Feeling Lightheaded: Dizziness or fainting.
  6. Leg Swelling: Especially in one leg.
  7. Sweating: Profuse sweating without apparent cause.
  8. Fatigue: Generalized weakness and tiredness.
  9. Blue or Discolored Lips and Nails: Signifying poor oxygenation.
  10. Fever: Elevated body temperature.
  11. Anxiety: A feeling of impending doom.
  12. Irregular Heartbeat: Palpitations or arrhythmias.
  13. Clammy Skin: Cool and damp skin.
  14. Wheezing: High-pitched sound while breathing.
  15. Chest Tightness: A feeling of pressure in the chest.
  16. Swollen Veins: Especially in the legs.
  17. Cyanosis: Bluish discoloration of the skin.
  18. Hemoptysis: Coughing up blood.
  19. Nausea and Vomiting: Especially if persistent.
  20. Decreased Blood Pressure: Hypotension.

Diagnostic Tests for Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

  1. CT Pulmonary Angiography: A specialized CT scan to visualize blood vessels in the lungs.
  2. Ventilation-Perfusion (V/Q) Scan: Assessing airflow and blood flow in the lungs.
  3. D-Dimer Test: Measures the presence of a substance released when a blood clot breaks up.
  4. Chest X-ray: To rule out other lung conditions.
  5. Echocardiogram: Ultrasound of the heart to evaluate its function.
  6. Pulmonary Angiography: Invasive procedure using contrast dye to visualize lung arteries.
  7. MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging for detailed images of blood vessels.
  8. Blood Gas Analysis: Assesses oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
  9. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the heart’s electrical activity.
  10. Pulmonary Function Tests: Evaluates lung capacity and function.
  11. Ultrasound of Legs: Checks for deep vein thrombosis.
  12. Blood Tests: Including genetic tests for clotting disorders.
  13. Perfusion Lung Scintigraphy: Nuclear medicine test assessing blood flow in the lungs.
  14. Plethysmography: Measures lung volumes and airflow.
  15. Venous Doppler Ultrasound: Assesses blood flow in the veins.
  16. Catheter Angiography: Invasive procedure using a catheter to image blood vessels.
  17. C-Reactive Protein Test: Measures infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation in the body.
  18. Troponin Test: Checks for heart muscle damage.
  19. Pulse Oximetry: Measures oxygen saturation in the blood.
  20. Capnography: Monitors carbon dioxide levels during breathing.

Treatments for Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

  1. Anticoagulant Medications: Drugs like heparin and warfarin prevent further clotting.
  2. Thrombolytic Therapy: Medications to dissolve blood clots.
  3. Oxygen Therapy: Provides additional oxygen to improve oxygenation.
  4. Pain Management: Analgesics for chest pain relief.
  5. Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter: Device to prevent clots from reaching the lungs.
  6. Supportive Care: Including fluids and bed rest.
  7. Graduated Compression Stockings: To prevent blood pooling in the legs.
  8. Lung-Protective Ventilation: Mechanical ventilation strategies to protect the lungs.
  9. Embolectomy: Surgical removal of the clot.
  10. Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis: Targeted clot dissolution using a catheter.
  11. Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Exercise and education for lung health.
  12. Fluid Management: Regulating fluid levels to prevent dehydration.
  13. Statins: Medications to manage cholesterol levels.
  14. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: To reduce inflammation.
  15. Bereavement Counseling: For those who lost a loved one to PAE.
  16. Respiratory Support: Mechanical ventilation if necessary.
  17. Elevating Legs: Helps reduce leg swelling.
  18. Beta-Blockers: Medications to manage heart rate.
  19. Antidepressants: If anxiety or depression occurs.
  20. Revascularization Procedures: To restore blood flow in affected arteries.
  21. Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy: Surgical removal of chronic clots.
  22. Home Oxygen Therapy: For long-term oxygen needs.
  23. Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet and regular exercise.
  24. Smoking Cessation: Important for overall cardiovascular health.
  25. Physical Therapy: To improve mobility and strength.
  26. Regular Follow-Up: Monitoring and adjusting treatment as needed.
  27. Genetic Counseling: For those with hereditary clotting disorders.
  28. Weight Management: Especially for individuals with obesity.
  29. Patient Education: Empowering individuals with knowledge about their condition.
  30. Continuous Monitoring: To detect and address complications early.

Common Drugs Used in Pulmonary Arteries Embolism Treatment:

  1. Heparin: Prevents new clots from forming.
  2. Warfarin: Oral anticoagulant for long-term management.
  3. Enoxaparin: Low-molecular-weight heparin.
  4. Alteplase: Thrombolytic medication to dissolve clots.
  5. Rivaroxaban: Oral anticoagulant.
  6. Apixaban: Anticoagulant for preventing blood clots.
  7. Fondaparinux: Prevents and treats deep vein thrombosis.
  8. Aspirin: Antiplatelet medication.
  9. Clopidogrel: Reduces the risk of blood clots.
  10. Iloprost: Vasodilator to improve blood flow.
  11. Dobutamine: Inotropic medication to support heart function.
  12. Morphine: Analgesic for severe chest pain.
  13. Simvastatin: Statin medication for cholesterol management.
  14. Metoprolol: Beta-blocker to manage heart rate.
  15. Fluoxetine: Antidepressant if needed.
  16. Losartan: Angiotensin receptor blocker for blood pressure control.
  17. Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen to improve oxygen levels.
  18. Nicotine Replacement Therapy: For individuals trying to quit smoking.
  19. Acetaminophen: Pain reliever for mild to moderate pain.
  20. Venlafaxine: Medication for anxiety and panic attacks.

Surgical Options for Pulmonary Arteries Embolism:

  1. Embolectomy: Surgical removal of blood clots from the pulmonary arteries.
  2. Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis: Use of a catheter to deliver clot-dissolving medication directly to the site.
  3. Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy: Surgical removal of chronic clots and scar tissue from the pulmonary arteries.
  4. Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement: A device inserted to trap clots before they reach the lungs.
  5. Revascularization Procedures: Techniques to restore blood flow in blocked arteries.
  6. Lung Transplant: For severe cases with irreversible lung damage.
  7. Angioplasty: Widening narrowed or blocked arteries using a balloon.
  8. Thrombectomy: Removal of a blood clot, usually performed in emergencies.
  9. Ventricular Assist Device (VAD): Mechanical pump to support heart function.
  10. Heart-Lung Bypass Machine: Used during complex surgeries to temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs.

Conclusion:

Pulmonary Arteries Embolism is a critical condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Understanding its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, drugs, and surgical options is essential for both patients and healthcare providers. If you suspect PAE, seek medical attention immediately, as early intervention significantly improves outcomes. Regular follow-up and adherence to prescribed treatments are crucial for managing this condition effectively.

 

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

 

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Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

Which doctor may help?

Start with a registered doctor or the nearest qualified health center.

What to tell the doctor

  • Write when the problem started and how it changed.
  • Bring old prescriptions, investigation reports, and current medicines.
  • Write allergies, pregnancy status, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, and major past illnesses.
  • Bring one family member if the patient is weak, elderly, confused, or a child.

Questions to ask

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which danger signs mean I should go to hospital quickly?
  • Which tests are necessary now, and which can wait?
  • How should I take medicines safely and what side effects should I watch for?
  • When should I come for follow-up?

Tests to discuss

  • Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation
  • Basic physical examination by a clinician
  • CBC, urine test, blood sugar, or imaging only when clinically needed

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not use antibiotics, steroid tablets/injections, or strong painkillers without proper medical advice.
  • Do not hide pregnancy, kidney disease, ulcer, allergy, or blood thinner use.
  • Do not delay emergency care when danger signs are present.

Medicine safety and first-aid guide

This section is for patient education only. It does not replace a doctor, pharmacist, or emergency care.

Safe first steps

  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden bending, and prolonged bed rest.
  • Use comfortable posture and gentle movement as tolerated.
  • Discuss physiotherapy, X-ray, or MRI only when clinically needed.

OTC medicine safety

  • For mild back pain, pain-relief medicine may be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
  • Avoid repeated painkiller use if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
  • Do not use steroid tablets or injections casually for quick relief.
  • Do not delay emergency care because of home remedies.

Get urgent help if

  • Back pain with leg weakness, numbness around private area, loss of urine/stool control, fever, cancer history, or major injury needs urgent care.
Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

For rural patients and family caregivers

Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Medicine doctor / pediatrician for children / qualified clinician
Tests to discuss with doctor
  • Temperature chart and hydration assessment
  • CBC with platelet count if fever persists or dengue/other infection is possible
  • Urine test, malaria/dengue tests, chest evaluation, or blood culture only when clinically indicated
Questions to ask
  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
  • Which tests are really needed now?
  • Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?
  • Do I need antibiotics, or is this more likely viral?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Safe pathway to proper treatment

Care roadmap for: Pulmonary Arteries Embolism

Use this simple roadmap to understand the next safe steps. It is educational and does not replace examination by a doctor.

Go to emergency care if you notice:
  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
  • Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, major injury, or severe dehydration
Doctor / service to discuss: Qualified healthcare provider; specialist depends on symptoms and examination.
  1. Step 1

    Check danger signs first

    If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.

  2. Step 2

    Record the symptom story

    Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.

  3. Step 3

    Visit a qualified clinician

    A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.

  4. Step 4

    Do only useful tests

    Do tests after clinical assessment. Avoid unnecessary tests, random antibiotics, or repeated medicines without diagnosis.

  5. Step 5

    Follow up and return early if worse

    If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips
  • Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
  • Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
  • Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

RX Patient Help

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Emergency first: Severe chest pain, breathing trouble, unconsciousness, stroke signs, severe injury, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent local medical care now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this article a replacement for a doctor?

No. It is educational content only. Patients should consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.

When should I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, rapidly worsening condition, breathing difficulty, severe pain, neurological changes, or any emergency warning sign.

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