Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism is a serious health problem that is considered a medical emergency and can have fatal consequences without timely intervention. The basis of this condition is that a blood clot in the body travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow there. Pulmonary embolism manifests itself with symptoms such as sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain and cough. In this article we have written for you, we will try to give information about what pulmonary embolism is, its causes and development process.

What Is Pulmonary Embolism?

Pulmonary embolism is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) formed elsewhere in the body is carried to the lungs and causes blockage in the pulmonary vessels. This blockage results in the blockage of one or more of the vessels that carry oxygenated blood to the lungs, which causes the lungs not to receive enough oxygen. The severity of pulmonary embolism varies depending on the size of the blocked vessel and the amount of obstruction. While symptoms may be mild in mild cases, severe cases may result in sudden death.

What Causes Pulmonary Embolism?

The most common cause of pulmonary embolism is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in which a blood clot that forms in the veins of the leg breaks off and travels to the lungs. Factors that increase the risk of DVT include prolonged immobility, postoperative period, some types of cancer, heart failure, pregnancy, use of birth control pills and genetic coagulation disorders. In rare cases, pulmonary embolism can also occur when fat, air or bone marrow fragments cause blockage in the blood vessels.

How Does Pulmonary Embolism Develop?

The development of pulmonary embolism begins when a blood clot breaks away from the site of formation and is carried to the lungs. The blood clot usually forms in the leg veins or pelvic region and travels with the blood flow to the heart. From there, the clot travels to the blood vessels leading to the lungs, gets stuck in the lungs where the vessel diameter narrows and causes a blockage. This blockage prevents oxygenation of the affected lung area and is insufficient to meet the body’s oxygen demand. If left untreated, pulmonary embolism can lead to serious complications such as heart and lung failure.

What Are The Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot blocking a lung artery. This blockage is usually caused by a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and is carried through the bloodstream to the lungs. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary from person to person and may sometimes be asymptomatic. However, the following symptoms are common signs of pulmonary embolism;

• Shortness of breath,
• Chest pain,
• Cough,
• Leg pain and swelling,
• Rapid heartbeat,
• Sweating,
• Dizziness and fainting,
• Bruising of the skin,

How Is Pulmonary Embolism Diagnosed?

Diagnosing pulmonary embolism is difficult because the symptoms are similar to other diseases. Doctors diagnose pulmonary embolism using the following diagnostic methods in combination with the patient’s symptoms, medical history and physical examination;

A blood test called D-dimer measures the level of coagulation products and helps assess the risk of pulmonary embolism.

It shows abnormalities in the lungs and helps to distinguish symptoms caused by causes other than pulmonary embolism.

A CT scan using contrast media shows blood flow in the lungs and the presence of clots.

A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan test helps to detect pulmonary embolism by assessing air and blood flow in the lungs.

Ultrasound to detect deep vein thrombosis in the legs helps to assess the risk of pulmonary embolism.

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging shows blood flow in the lungs and the presence of clots.

Pulmonary angiography invasive test shows blood flow in the lungs using a contrast medium and is considered the gold standard for diagnosing pulmonary embolism.

Doctors aim to protect the health of pulmonary embolism patients by creating the appropriate treatment plan according to the results of these tests.

How Is Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Performed?

Pulmonary embolism treatment varies depending on the patient’s condition and the severity of the embolism. The methods used in the treatment of pulmonary embolism are as follows;

• Anticoagulants (blood thinning drugs),
• Thrombolytic agents (clot dissolving drugs),
• Inferior vena cava filter,
• Surgical treatment,

What Can Be Done To Prevent Pulmonary Embolism?

You can take the following measures to reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism;

Staying inactive for a long time increases the risk of blood clots forming. Take frequent breaks during long journeys and stand up and walk. In the postoperative period, start moving as early as your doctor recommends.

Regular exercise improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots. Try to do moderate aerobic exercise for at least 150 minutes a week.

Being overweight increases the risk of blood clots. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to achieve a healthy weight.

Smoking increases the risk of blood clots and increases the risk of pulmonary embolism. You can reduce this risk by quitting smoking.

Drinking enough water maintains blood fluidity and helps prevent clot formation. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

In some cases, especially in the postoperative period or when you have to remain immobile for a long time, wearing compression stockings can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. You can use appropriate compression stockings on the recommendation of your doctor.

Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Prices in Turkey

Turkey has managed to announce its name to the world with its investments and studies in the field of health. Especially the latest technological devices used in diagnosis and treatment procedures have been a beacon of hope for many diseases. However, there has been an increase in health tourism in Türkiye.

• Hospitals are large, clean, spacious and fully equipped in terms of technological equipment.
• Turkish doctors are specialized, successful, and skilled in their fields.
• Nurses and carers are friendly and compassionate.
• Finding answers to the questions asked quickly and accurately.
• Patience and understanding of all staff, including the intermediary company dealing with the patient.
• Turkey offers holiday opportunities with its natural and historical beauties.
• Easy transportation.
• Diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, eating, drinking, dressing, and holiday needs can be met at affordable prices.

Such situations are shown among the reasons for preference. We can see that patients and their relatives who want to come to Turkey are doing research on Pulmonary Embolism Treatment Prices in Turkey. However, it would not be correct to give clear price information at this stage. Many factors such as the type of disease, stage, diagnosis process, treatment process, and stay in Türkiye affect the price issue. If you want to get more detailed price information, you can contact us. In addition, if you come to Turkey for treatment through us, we can facilitate your visa application process with the invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.