A pulmonary embolism is serious, and can cause damage to the heart and lungs and even death.
But if caught early, PE can be treated and is not often fatal, according to theCleveland Clinic.
These can vary greatly, depending on the size and severity of the blood clot.
If you have symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, seek medical treatment right away.
Anyone can develop DVT that can lead to a PE, but it is more common in certain populations.
According to Mayo Clinic, risk factors for pulmonary embolism include:
How Is a PE Diagnosed?
However, some symptoms may linger.
Long-term complications, such aspulmonary hypertensioncan also occur, which may become chronic.
Treating a PE focuses on keeping the blood clot from growing and preventing the formation of new clots.
Treatment typically takes place in a hospital and involves medication or surgery.
If a PE is not treated promptly, it can cause death.
PE can also lead to pulmonary hypertension, characterized by shortness of breath and decreased ability to exercise.
About 2 to 4 percent of people with PE have chronic pulmonary hypertension, according to theCirculationreport.
If left untreated, PE can lead to heart failure.
Blood thinners that treat PE can have their own set of complications, including excessive bleeding.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
These may include:
Research and Statistics: How Many People Have PE?
Among people who have had blood clots, 33 percent will have a recurrence within 10 years.
The CDC estimates that between 60,000 to 100,000 Americans die from DVT or PE each year.
Cancers of the blood, including lymphoma and myeloma, also raise the risk.
Blood clots are also more common during pregnancy, childbirth, and up to three months postpartum.
A womans blood also clots more easily during pregnancy to prevent excess blood loss during labor and delivery.
Ashley Welch has more than a decade of experience in both breaking news and long-form storytelling.
As a former staff member at Everyday Health, she covered a wide range of chronic conditions and diseases.
She enjoys yoga and is an aspiring runner.
