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Pulmonary embolisms can be life-threatening, but how long does it take for a pulmonary embolism to kill you? This article will explain what a pulmonary embolism is, the symptoms and risk factors, and how long before a pulmonary embolism kills you.
What is a Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in the pulmonary artery, the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the lungs. It usually occurs when a blood clot, called a thrombus, forms in a vein and travels to the lungs.
PE can be fatal if not treated quickly. It is estimated that up to 30% of untreated PEs are fatal.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
The most common symptom of a pulmonary embolism is sudden, sharp chest pain. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, rapid breathing, sweating, and lightheadedness.
There are several risk factors for developing a pulmonary embolism, including:
- Prolonged bed rest or immobility
- Surgery or trauma
- Long-distance travel
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- Certain medications
- Advanced age
- Pregnancy
How Long Before a Pulmonary Embolism Kills You?
It is impossible to predict how long it will take for a pulmonary embolism to kill someone. The severity of the blockage, the amount of clot that has formed, and the health of the individual all play a role in determining how long it will take for a pulmonary embolism to be fatal.
In general, the larger the clot, the more quickly it can cause death. However, even small clots can be fatal if they block a major artery.
If a pulmonary embolism is not treated quickly, it can cause death within minutes. The most common cause of death from a pulmonary embolism is cardiac arrest.
Treatment
Treatment for a pulmonary embolism usually involves a combination of medications, such as anticoagulants and thrombolytics, and surgical procedures.
Anticoagulants are drugs that prevent the formation of new blood clots. Thrombolytics are drugs that dissolve existing clots.
Surgical procedures, such as an embolectomy, can be used to remove the clot from the pulmonary artery.
Prevention
The best way to prevent a pulmonary embolism is to reduce your risk factors. This includes exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and avoiding long periods of immobility.
If you are at an increased risk for a pulmonary embolism, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulant medications to reduce your risk.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Pulmonary embolisms can be life-threatening, but how long does it take for a pulmonary embolism to kill you? It is impossible to predict how long it will take for a pulmonary embolism to be fatal, as it depends on the size of the clot, the amount of clot that has formed, and the health of the individual. Treatment for a pulmonary embolism usually involves a combination of medications and surgical procedures. The best way to prevent a pulmonary embolism is to reduce your risk factors. If you experience any of the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, you should seek medical attention immediately.
