Pulmonary embolism is a condition in which the blood clot gets stuck in the lungs of the artery, which blocks the blood flow to that specific part leading to their death. The most common cause of P.E. is DVT – Deep Venous Thrombosis. It is a serious matter and can result in fatality if not catered. Stay with us till the end to know about the life expectancy after a pulmonary embolism attack.
What is the Life Expectancy of An Individual After a Pulmonary Embolism Attack?
In the U.S., the mortality rate (life expectancy) from blood clots ranges from 5–15%; However, it may be higher or lower depending on individual circumstances.
Approximately 1 or 2 people from every 1,000 per annum are affected by Pulmonary embolism in States (U.S.).
It is the third leading cause of heart or cardiovascular-related death.
In most cases, it is Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) causing the issue. Death occurs when a clot or several blood clots travels to the lungs and causes the block.
Sudden death from P.E. is around 25% of the people who have this condition, and this will happen without any other symptoms.
Usually, around 23% of people with P.E. die within the initial 3 months of diagnosis, 30% mortality is seen within 6 months, whereas 37% in one year after diagnosis, according to research by scientists.
Causes of P.E.
An embolus is often due to a blood clot that forms inside a vein that is outside the lungs. The most common blood clot is from the deep vein of your thigh or in the pelvis (hip area) – deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Other than that, you are more likely to suffer from this condition if your family has a history of blood clots or clotting disorders.
It may occur after the following:
- Childbirth
- Heart attack
- Heart surgery
- Stroke
- Severe injuries such as burns or fractures of the hips or thigh bone.
- After bone, joint, or brain surgeries.
- In the duration of a long plane or car ride.
- Birth control pills
- Estrogen therapy
- Long-term bed rest
- The habit of staying in one position for a long time.
Disorders that may contribute to the condition include:
- Inherited disorders increase the likelihood of blood to clot. One such example is antithrombin III deficiency.
- Immunity diseases make it harder for the blood to clot according to the regular mechanism.
Symptoms Of P.E.
The main symptoms of P.E. include chest pain which is observed in the following forms:
- Under your breastbone or on one side of your chest.
- Sharp sting or stabbing pain.
- The sensation of burning, a dull aching, or heaviness.
- Wanting to bend over to get rid of chest pain.
- The pain gets worse with deep breathing.
Other symptoms include:
- Feeling of dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting.
- Hypoxemia – Also known as low oxygen levels in the blood.
- Wheezing
- Rapid heart rate
- Anxiousness
- Leg pain along with redness or swelling there.
- Low B.P.
- Sudden coughing up blood or bloody mucus.
- SOB – shortness of breath starting abruptly during sleep or on exertion.
- Low-grade fever
- Cyanosis – skin turning blue
Final Words
There are tests available to detect whether or not you have a blood clot lodged in your lungs. Get in touch with your pulmonologist immediately in case you observe any of the signs mentioned above. Why don’t you head to Pulmonary Medical Consultants in Tomball, TX? Dial (281) 357-1300 to connect with us.