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Pulmonary Embolism

Published: August 5, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage of an artery in the lungs by a substance that has traveled from elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream.

Quick summary

Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot blocks one or more of the arteries in the lungs. Immediate medical attention is crucial.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
I26
ICD-11
BA00.0
Body system
cardiovascular
Severity
severe
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Pleuritic chest pain

!

Syncope

Dyspnea

(cardiovascular)

Chest discomfort or palpitations

(cardiovascular)

Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.

Frequency: Varies

Hemoptysis

(cardiovascular)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Disease management and monitoring

Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

medication
2

Anticoagulation Therapy

Anticoagulant medications are used to prevent further clot formation and allow the body's natural systems to dissolve existing clots. Treatment typically continues for several months depending on risk factors and recurrence likelihood.

medication
3

Early Ambulation and Mobility

Progressive return to physical activity following stabilization reduces recurrence risk and improves overall recovery. Structured walking programs help prevent stasis in lower extremities.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Thrombolytic Therapy

Catheter-directed thrombolysis uses specialized medications to rapidly dissolve life-threatening clots in severe cases. This procedure requires intensive monitoring in a hospital setting due to bleeding risks.

procedure

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement

A mechanical device is placed in the main vein returning blood from the lower body to prevent clots from reaching the lungs. Used when anticoagulation is contraindicated or has failed.

procedure

Compression Stocking Use

Graduated compression garments apply therapeutic pressure to improve venous return and reduce swelling in affected limbs. Consistent daily use supports long-term vein health.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

See a doctor within 24 hours

Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Pulmonary Embolism?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Konstantinides SV, Meyer G, Becattini C, et al. 2019 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism. Eur Heart J. 2020;41(4):543-603.

guideline2020View source →
2

Bij P, van der Hulle T, Büller HR, Kamphuisen PW. Diagnosis and treatment of acute pulmonary embolism. Clin Chest Med. 2018;39(3):525-544.

review2018
3

Zhang S, Zhai Z, Yang Y, et al. Direct oral anticoagulants versus low-molecular-weight heparin for treatment of acute pulmonary embolism: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Thromb Haemost. 2021;19(6):1493-1506.

meta_analysis2021
4

Meyer G, Vicaut E, Danays T, et al. Fibrinolysis for patients with intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism. N Engl J Med. 2014;370(15):1402-1411.

clinical_trial2014

Risk factors

Factors that raise the chance of developing this condition. Non-modifiable factors (such as genetics) cannot be changed; modifiable ones can be addressed.

Prolonged bed rest or sitting, such as during a long plane flight or hospital stay
Surgery, especially orthopedic surgery, or major trauma
Cancer and cancer treatment
Having a central venous catheter
Pregnancy or recent childbirth
Previous blood clots or pulmonary embolism
Being overweight or obese

When to seek medical help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood.

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Pulmonary Embolism. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a pulmonary embolism and a heart attack?
A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot blocking an artery in the lungs, usually after a clot forms in a deep vein. A heart attack is a blockage in an artery supplying the heart muscle. Both can cause chest pain and shortness of breath, so sudden symptoms require emergency medical assessment.
Can a pulmonary embolism cause death?
Yes. A large or untreated pulmonary embolism can reduce blood flow through the lungs and place severe strain on the heart. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, often including anticoagulant medicine, can substantially reduce the risk. Seek emergency care for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or coughing up blood.
Is a pulmonary embolism the same as a blood clot in the lung?
Yes. A pulmonary embolism is the medical event caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the lungs. A deep-vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a clot in a deep vein—often in the leg—that can travel to the lungs and become a pulmonary embolism.
Are there any home remedies for a pulmonary embolism?
No home remedy can safely treat a suspected pulmonary embolism. Do not wait or try to manage it yourself; seek urgent medical care. If a pulmonary embolism has been diagnosed, take anticoagulants exactly as prescribed and follow your clinician’s activity and follow-up instructions.
What are the long-term effects of a pulmonary embolism?
Many people recover, but tiredness and shortness of breath can continue for several weeks or months. Some people have recurrent clots or develop chronic pressure problems in the lung arteries, which are uncommon but important to assess. Contact a clinician if breathlessness persists or worsens, or if chest pain, fainting, or leg swelling returns.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/symptoms-causes/syc-20376262Source
  2. 2
    American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pulmonary-embolismSource
  3. 3
    National Health Service (UK): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pulmonary-embolism/Source

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy