Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a disorder of the lungs. One or more blood clots could disrupt the free flow of blood in the pulmonary arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. This could result in causing pulmonary hypertension of the lungs and the heart not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood to circulate around the body. This could impair the normal functioning of other organs in the body too. Pulmonary embolism can become a life-threatening condition if not treated promptly. Anyone can suffer from pulmonary embolism, but there are certain people who have a higher probability of developing this disorder.
Blood clots that form anywhere in the body can move through the circulatory system and block the arteries in the lungs hampering the free flow of blood. This can cause severe repercussions leading to even death in acute cases. The people who are most at risk of suffering from pulmonary embolism are:
- Those having a first degree relative (like a parent or sibling) who has a confirmed history of thrombosis are twice more vulnerable to PE. Also, those who suffer genetic disorders like V Leiden mutation face higher risk of developing this lung condition.
- People over the age of 60 face five times higher risk of developing PE.
- Those who are immobile and confined to a bed because of illness are vulnerable to developing blood clots that can become fatal.
- Men and women who are overweight and obese and lead a physically sluggish lifestyle are susceptible to developing blood clots that lead to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
- People traveling in a vehicle for long duration or those on long-distance flights confined to a small space are at serious risk of PE. Sitting in one position for many hours can affect the circulation of blood in the legs and lead to deep vein thrombosis.
- Those taking special medicines for birth control like estrogen-containing contraceptives or are undergoing hormone replacement therapy to reduce the side effects of menopause are at higher risk of PE.
- Those suffering from cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatment, people having a history of heart attack or stroke, and those having diseases like varicose veins or blood clotting disorders have a strong risk of developing pulmonary embolism.
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, expectant mothers, or new moms who have just given birth, and those who have any kind of injury or trauma to blood vessels in the legs are more vulnerable to the formation of blood clots that can eventually lead to pulmonary embolism.
It is important to understand that the more risks you have, the greater is the probability of you suffering from PE. While symptoms manifest themselves, there could visibly be no signs of pulmonary embolism in some people. But being aware of what to look for and talking to your doctor about your risks is important. Preventing certain risks and emergency medical situations is possible. Hence, one should take the time to reduce the risk factors of pulmonary embolism and lead a healthy life.
