What is pulmonary embolus?

Florida residents may have heard of the term pulmonary embolus in the past and may be curious about what it is. A pulmonary embolus is a blood clot that blocks one of the arteries in the lungs. This may happen after a brain, bone or joint surgery or after an individual has been on bed rest for a long period of time.

It may be possible to develop a blood clot after sitting in a car or plane for several hours at a time. Those who take birth control pills or have just suffered a heart attack may also be at a higher risk for this condition. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolus include pain when breathing, stabbing pains in the chest and bluish skin.

Other symptoms may include coughing up blood or leg pain and swelling. Those who have these symptoms may be able to get a diagnosis through their doctor or another medical professional. Lab tests will be done to determine whether or not there is a clot and where the clot is located if there is one. In the event that a clot is present, action will be taken immediately to thin the blood or dissolve the clot directly.

Individuals who have suffered injury due to a doctor’s failure to treat or diagnose a pulmonary embolus may be entitled to receive compensation. Family members of those who have been killed by a misdiagnosis or other doctor error may be entitled to compensation as well for the wrongful death of their loved one. An attorney may be able to help pursue a case and keep the rights of the victims intact.

Source: Medline Plus, “Pulmonary embolus“, December 04, 2014