What is pulmonary embolism?

Apr 19, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Pulmonary embolism is usually caused by endogenous or exogenous emboli blocking the pulmonary artery or its branches, leading to dysfunction of the pulmonary circulation and right heart function, resulting in impaired blood flow distal to the occluded pulmonary artery. It triggers a series of medical conditions, including pulmonary thromboembolism, amniotic fluid embolism, fat embolism, among others. The main symptoms include transient dizziness or varying degrees of dyspnea occurring within a short period, requiring prompt medical attention.

Pulmonary embolism is a disease caused by the blockage of blood vessels in the pulmonary artery. A detailed analysis is as follows:

Pulmonary embolism typically refers to dysfunction of the pulmonary circulation and right heart function due to endogenous or exogenous emboli obstructing the pulmonary artery or its branches, resulting in interrupted blood flow beyond the site of occlusion. This condition leads to a series of medical complications, including pulmonary thromboembolism, amniotic fluid embolism, fat embolism, tumor embolism, etc. The main symptoms include transient dizziness or varying degrees of breathing difficulty occurring within a short period. If the area of embolism is large, it may easily lead to secondary pulmonary hypertension, which can be life-threatening in severe cases.

Pulmonary embolism is a very serious condition. Regardless of whether it causes noticeable symptoms, once diagnosed, active treatment under medical supervision is essential to prevent adverse outcomes.