Living with PE

Living with a pulmonary embolism (PE) can be concerning, but it’s important to know that treatment can help. You might feel short of breath or have chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing¹. Although anyone can develop blood clots that result in a pulmonary embolism, certain factors can increase your risk. You’re at a higher risk if you or any of your blood relatives, such as a parent or sibling, have had venous blood clots or a pulmonary embolism in the past. A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned.

Causes

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs from another part of the body, usually from the deep veins in the legs (a condition called deep vein thrombosis or DVT)². This clot blocks blood flow in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, which can lead to serious breathing problems and damage to lung tissue. Risk factors for developing PE include prolonged immobility (such as after surgery or during long flights), obesity, smoking, pregnancy, certain medical conditions like cancer, and inherited blood clotting disorders³. When these clots break free and travel to the lungs, they can cause PE, potentially resulting in severe symptoms and requiring immediate medical attention.