Pulmonary Embolism: how to spot it and what to do right away

A pulmonary embolism (PE) happens when a blood clot blocks an artery in your lungs. It can come on fast and feels different from a heart attack or panic attack. If you know the usual signs and the common causes, you can act faster and get help sooner.

Recognize the signs

Shortness of breath that appears suddenly is the most common red flag. You might also notice chest pain that gets worse when you breathe in, fast or irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, or even fainting. Coughing up blood is less common but serious. Many people with PE had leg pain or swelling first — that’s a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the usual source of the clots that travel to the lungs.

If you suddenly feel breathless after long travel, a recent surgery, or a period of being immobile, don’t ignore it. These situations raise the chance that a clot formed in a leg and moved to the lung.

What causes PE and who’s at risk

Most pulmonary embolisms start as clots in the deep veins of the legs. Those clots can form when blood flow slows or when the clotting system is more active than usual. Common risk factors include recent major surgery (especially on the hips or legs), long flights or long bed rest, active cancer, and hormone therapy or pregnancy. Older age, obesity, smoking, and inherited clotting conditions also increase risk.

Medication and medical conditions matter too. Certain cancer treatments, some birth control pills, and hormone replacement can raise clot risk. If you have a family history of DVT or known clotting disorders, tell your doctor before surgery or long travel so they can give preventive steps.

What should you do if you suspect PE? Call emergency services immediately. Don’t drive yourself if you feel dizzy or your breathing is getting worse. Paramedics and emergency teams can assess you quickly, give oxygen, and start treatments that reduce the chance of serious damage.

In the hospital, doctors use imaging tests and blood tests to confirm a PE. Treatment typically includes blood thinners to stop new clots and, in severe cases, clot-busting drugs or procedures to remove the clot. Your care plan will depend on how big the clot is and your overall health.

Prevention is often practical: move around during long travel, wear compression stockings if your doctor suggests them, stay hydrated, quit smoking, and follow advice about blood thinners when you have surgery. If you’re on hormone therapy or have cancer, talk with your clinician about clot risk and steps to lower it.

Knowing the signs and acting fast saves lives. If you suspect a clot, treat it like an emergency and get help right away.