Pulmonary Embolism: Sudden Lung Blockage and Its Life-Threatening Symptoms

February 18, 2026

Pulmonary Embolism: Sudden Lung Blockage and Its Life-Threatening Symptoms

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
18 February, 2026

An embolism is caused by a blood clot called an embolus or emboli (plural). The clot can block any blood vessel in the body and when it happens in the lungs, it can lead to a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency that requires medical help immediately. A pulmonary embolism can strain heart function and damage the lungs. So, if you suffer from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or related conditions, you should be careful about lung health too. Call our specialists at KIMS Sunshine hospital, if you have been searching for the best ‘Pulmonology Hospital Near Me’ online.

PE Risk Factors And Causes

Some of the most well known causes include-

Pooling of blood in the extremities due to inactivity, extended periods of bed rest, long flights or other similar instances where you are stationary for a long time.

If you suffer from heart disease.

If there are changes in how your body tries to clot blood- low or high amounts of clotting factors can be problematic.

You are at high risk of developing a pulmonary embolism if you have deep vein thrombosis, lead a sedentary life, use birth control, have clotting disorders or have chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, or are pregnant, among others.

Pulmonary Embolism Symptoms

A blood clot in lung can cause the following symptoms-

Chest pain on breathing
Shortness of breath even when you are at rest
Wheezing
Sharp chest pain that has a radiating quality, similar to a heart attack.
Persistent cough
Fast heart rate
You may sweat too much
You may feel anxious or faint.

Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism

These are the tests that are normally done-

A CT pulmonary angiography scan to check how blood flows in the lungs and if there are clots present.
Ultrasound of the legs if you have DVT – to check for clots in distant blood vessels.
A pulse oximeter to check oxygen saturation levels in blood.
Blood tests to check for D-Dimers- and diagnose clotting disorders, which may be causing the PE.

Treatment for Pulmonary Embolism

Treatment approaches depend on why you have the pulmonary embolism in the first place.

Anticoagulant treatment can break down the clot and help blood flow better. It can also reduce the clotting ability of blood, to prevent clots from forming in the future. It can be for 3 months or longer.
Compression stockings can be used to help improve blood flow to the legs.
Removal of the clot from the pulmonary artery can be surgically done if necessary.
Clot busters or thrombolytic drugs are given when you have low blood pressure or are unstable because of the PE itself.

Conclusion

If you don’t diagnose and treat a PE in time, it can affect your heart’s ability to pump blood to all parts of the body, as it has to strain more with a clot blocking blood flow from the lungs. You will need treatment for sure if you already suffer from a chronic lung or heart condition. If you get treated on time, your symptoms will go away and your heart will begin to work well like before. If you have any concerns about lung function, show symptoms or have DVT, then you should get in touch with pulmonologists at KIMS Sunshine hospital, as we are the best multispeciality hospital in Hyderabad. So, call us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs. It is most often caused by a blood clot that travels from another part of the body and lodges in the pulmonary arteries. This blockage reduces blood flow to lung tissue, lowers oxygen levels in the blood, and strains the right side of the heart. PE can range from small clots with mild symptoms to large clots that are life-threatening. Common symptoms include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, and a rapid heart rate.

How is DVT related to pulmonary embolism?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and PE are parts of the same condition known as venous thromboembolism. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most often in the leg. If part of that clot breaks loose, it can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. Risk factors for DVT and PE include prolonged immobility, recent surgery, cancer, pregnancy, smoking, and inherited clotting disorders.

How is PE diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a physical exam and assessment of risk factors. Doctors use imaging tests to confirm PE. The most common test is a CT pulmonary angiogram, which visualizes blood flow in the lung arteries. A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan may be used if CT is not suitable. Blood tests such as a D-dimer can help rule out PE in low-risk patients.

What treatment is given for pulmonary embolism?

Treatment focuses on preventing further clot growth and new clots. Anticoagulant medications such as heparin, warfarin, or direct oral anticoagulants are the main therapy. In severe cases, clot-dissolving drugs (thrombolytics) or procedures to remove the clot may be required.

How long is anticoagulant therapy needed?

Anticoagulant therapy is usually continued for at least three months. Duration depends on the cause of the clot, risk of recurrence, and bleeding risk. Some people require extended or lifelong treatment.