Causes
A pulmonary embolism is commonly caused by deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT occurs when blood clots form in the calves and subsequently break free, traveling to the lungs. It is important to note that in many cases, multiple clots can block the artery, leading to a pulmonary embolism. While blood clots are the primary cause, blockages can also result from other factors such as air bubbles, fragments of tumors, or fat from broken long bones. In instances where lung tissue death occurs due to any form of blockage, it is known as a pulmonary infarction.
Medical Conditions and Factors that Increase the Risk of Blood Clots and Pulmonary Embolism
There are certain medical conditions and factors that can significantly increase a person’s risk of developing blood clots and pulmonary embolism. These conditions include heart disease, certain types of cancers, undergoing chemotherapy treatments, and surgical procedures. In fact, surgery is considered one of the primary causes of blood clots, which is why hospitals take extensive measures to prevent their formation before and after surgical interventions. Additionally, individuals with a family history of blood clots or pulmonary embolus are also at a higher risk of developing these conditions.