Monday, August 18, 2014

Important Information about Pulmonary Embolism!

The internal clotting of blood is known as a Deep Vein Thrombosis.  If you think about when you have a cut on your scan a scab appears, when the blood clumps internally it is often referred to colloquially as a blood clot.  A blood clot formation in the lungs is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). It can be caused or risk of one can be increased by:
  • Injury
     
  • Surgery
     
  • Family History of Blood Clot Disorder
     
  • Smoking (Another reason to quit)
     
  • Regular use of hormonal contraceptives
Yes! Frequent consumption of hormonal contraceptives like Yasmin, Yaz, Ocella, Beyaz or Gianvi can cause pulmonary embolisms. In some cases, individuals may suffer a stroke or even can have a yaz related death. In case you know someone who had suffered from a birth control injury, you must suggest for them to consult a yaz lawyer to discuss the options for compensation. 

A PE originates deep in the veins and affects various areas and functions in our body, which may include:
  • Permanent damage to the lungs
     
  • Lower oxygen levels in the body
     
  • Damage to lung tissues
     
  • Effect on other vital organs of the body
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism:
  • Breathing problem
     
  • Shortness of breath
     
  • Excessive sweating
     
  • Rapid heartbeat
     
  • Chest pain
     
  • Discolored skin
     
  • Fainting
     
  • Swelling in leg
     
  • Coughing up blood
     
  • Dizziness
If you or anyone you know has been experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, immediately consult a doctor, because if ignored, a pulmonary embolism can be life threatening.  Some of these symptoms are co-extensive with a DVT, which should be treated immediately as well.

During diagnosis, doctors first examine the legs because a PE originates in the legs. The area that is tender, red, and warm is likely to have deep vein clot, which further has a risk of traveling to the lungs and creating the pulmonary condition. Various blood tests, X-ray, ultrasounds may be used as a diagnostic tool and blood thinners such as Cumadin, Wayfarin, Xarelto, Pradaxa, Lovenox may be prescribed to thin the blood.

How to prevent PE?

Prevention is better than cure, they say. By making few necessary changes in lifestyle, one can lower the risk of having a serious event. Here are few of the most required changes:

  • Eat healthy (lots of vegetables and fruits) and drink a lot of water.
     
  • Exercise regularly in order to stay healthy and fit.
     
  • Ask your doctor to test you for any blood clot disorder before using hormonal birth control
     
  • Quit smoking
     
  • During long travel make sure to stretch every few hours.