Pulmonary embolism

A condition in which 1 or more pulmonary arteries in the lungs become blocked.

Overview

Pulmonary embolism is a condition in which 1 or more arteries in the lungs become blocked. Most times, it's caused by blood clots that travel from the legs or rarely other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT).

Symptoms

p>Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and cough.

Treatments

Prompt treatment can greatly reduce the risk of death.