Can You Have a Pulmonary Embolism and Not Know It?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot, most often originating in the deep veins of the legs due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow in the pulmonary arteries. According to the Mayo Clinic, clots rarely originate from veins outside the legs.

When blood flow is blocked, the affected portions of the lung may die due to lack of oxygen, a condition known as pulmonary infarction. This damage makes it harder for the lungs to supply oxygen to the rest of the body, potentially leading to respiratory distress and other life-threatening complications. Without prompt treatment, PE can have fatal consequences, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention, especially for individuals with vein disease or a history of clotting disorders.

Healthy Veins, Healthy Life—Act Now to Prevent Dangerous Blood Clots!

Poor circulation and untreated vein disease can increase your risk of blood clots and pulmonary embolism. Don’t wait for a serious complication—schedule an appointment with the top vein experts at Center for Vein Restoration today! Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.

How Dangerous Is a Pulmonary Embolism?

PE is a significant health concern. According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), between 100,000 and 200,000 people die each year in the United States due to pulmonary embolism. Immediate medical treatment is critical, as 33 percent of patients with PE die before receiving a diagnosis, per the Cleveland Clinic.

What Are the Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism?

Symptoms of PE can vary depending on the size of the blood clot and overall health. Some people experience no symptoms, making early detection challenging. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

• Sudden shortness of breath (even at rest or worsening with activity)
• Sharp chest pain (especially when breathing deeply, resembling a heart attack)
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Lightheadedness, fainting, or confusion
• Coughing up blood
• Leg pain and swelling (often in one leg, a common symptom of DVT)
• Excessive sweating and clammy skin
• Bluish or pale skin (cyanosis), indicating low oxygen levels

What Are the Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism?

Several factors increase the risk of developing PE, many of which are related to vein disease:

• Chronic venous insufficiency: Known as vein disease, this condition occurs when the veins in the legs fail to properly return blood to the heart, leading to poor circulation and blood pooling in the lower limbs. The one-way valves inside the veins become damaged or weak, allowing blood to flow backward (a condition known as venous reflux).

Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is the nation’s leader in diagnosing and treating vein disease, helping patients reduce their risk of serious complications like pulmonary embolism. Our expert vein specialists provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments to improve circulation and prevent dangerous blood clots.

Schedule a consultation at CVR below or call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative.

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots forming in leg veins can travel to the lungs. Center for Vein Restoration offers a safe and effective alternative to the ER. Patients can “skip the line” at the ER and receive:
• Same-day evaluation and diagnosis of possible deep vein thrombosis
• Notification of results on the same day
• Immediate start of anticoagulation medication (if indicated)
• Long-term follow-up care until anticoagulation medicine can be stopped

For Center for Restoration DVT rule-out service, call 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).

• Prolonged immobility: Long-haul flights, extended bed rest, or hospitalization can slow blood flow.
• Surgery or injury: Major surgeries, particularly orthopedic procedures, heighten clot risk.
• Cancer: Some cancers and chemotherapy treatments increase the likelihood of blood clotting.
• Pregnancy: Increased pressure on pelvic veins can slow blood circulation, leading to clot formation.
• Obesity: Extra weight strains veins and circulation.
• Smoking: Damages blood vessels and raises clot risk.
• Heart disease or high blood pressure: Impaired circulation increases the likelihood of clot formation.

How Can I Prevent Pulmonary Embolism?

While some risk factors are unavoidable, there are steps to reduce your chances of developing PE:

1. Seek Vein Treatment
Addressing vein problems, such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, lowers the risk of DVT and PE. A vein doctor can diagnose and treat vein disease to restore healthy blood circulation.

If you’re unsure about your DVT risk, contact Center for Vein Restoration (CVR). We offer a DVT rule-out service and same-day or next-day diagnosis and treatment plans. Our DVT hotline number is 877-SCAN-DVT.

2. Stay Active
Regular movement helps prevent blood clots. If you have a sedentary job or are traveling long distances, take breaks to stretch and walk every hour.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a significant risk factor for PE. A balanced diet and exercise improve circulation and reduce clot risks.

4. Quit Smoking
Smoking damages veins and increases clotting. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that quitting smoking significantly lowers PE risk.

5. Follow Medical Advice
If you are at high risk for DVT, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulants (blood thinners) to prevent clot formation. Follow all medical guidance for managing chronic conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure.

How Vein Treatment Reduces the Risk of Pulmonary Embolism

Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency can lead to serious complications, including DVT. Treating these conditions improves blood circulation and reduces clot risk.

At CVR, we specialize in minimally invasive outpatient vein treatment options, including:

• Endovenous Laser Ablation and Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat to close faulty veins.
• Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a solution to seal off problem veins.
• Venaseal Closure System: A medical adhesive that seals varicose veins.

Most treatments take less than an hour, allowing patients to return to normal activities the same day. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to make vein care accessible and affordable.

Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a helpful Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.

Take Control of Your Vein Health—Schedule Your Consultation at CVR Today!

Ignoring varicose veins, leg pain, or swelling can lead to serious health risks, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism—potentially life-threatening conditions. Don’t wait until symptoms worsen! At Center for Vein Restoration, our board-certified vein specialists provide expert, minimally invasive treatments to relieve discomfort, restore mobility, and protect your long-term health. Take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs—schedule your consultation today!