How To Avoid Pulmonary Embolism
Avoiding pulmonary embolism (PE)—a potentially life-threatening blockage in a lung artery, often caused by a blood clot (usually from the legs)—involves reducing risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and promoting healthy circulation.
✅ 1. Stay Physically Active
- Move regularly, especially during long periods of sitting (e.g., long flights, desk work, car rides).
- Stand up and walk every 1–2 hours.
- Do calf raises or ankle circles while sitting.
✅ 2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Obesity increases pressure in the veins and raises the risk of clots.
- Combine a balanced diet with regular cardio and strength exercise.
✅ 3. Stay Hydrated
- Dehydration thickens the blood, making clots more likely.
- Drink plenty of water, especially during travel or hot weather.
✅ 4. Avoid Smoking
- Smoking damages blood vessels and increases clotting risk.
- Quitting smoking significantly reduces your PE risk.
✅ 5. Wear Compression Stockings
- If you’re at risk (e.g., long travel, surgery recovery, pregnancy), compression socks help improve blood flow in the legs and prevent clot formation.
✅ 6. Follow Post-Surgery Prevention Protocols
- After surgery, especially orthopedic or abdominal procedures:
- Start walking as soon as possible (as directed by your doctor).
- Use blood thinners (anticoagulants) if prescribed.
- Continue compression therapy if advised.
✅ 7. Manage Chronic Conditions
- Conditions like heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders increase clot risk.
- Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar if applicable.
✅ 8. Hormonal Risk Awareness
- Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and pregnancy raise clotting risks.
- Discuss alternatives or preventive steps with your doctor if you’re at high risk.
✅ 9. Know the Signs of DVT and PE
- DVT Symptoms: Leg pain, swelling, redness, warmth (usually in one leg).
- PE Symptoms: Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, coughing (possibly with blood).
- Call emergency services immediately if PE is suspected.
✅ 10. Take Medications as Prescribed
- If you’re prescribed blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, rivaroxaban) for a previous clot or high-risk condition, take them consistently and have regular monitoring.