A pulmonary embolism (or PE) is a blood clot, particularly in the lungs.  What makes a PE so dangerous is that it blocks the normal function of the lungs and can be deadly if left untreated.  Other terms, such as veinous thromboembolism (VTE), may be used to describe blood clots in other areas of the body.  Regardless of what it is precisely called, just like a PE, a blood clot in any essential organ of the body does the same thing and is a serious medical condition.  Blood clots in the brain can result in severe prolonged headaches.

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Blood clots can occur in people of any age and can be the result of poor circulation from an underlying medical conditions and/or inactivity.  Risk factors include an acute or chronic illness, cancer, abnormal heart structure, immune or blood system disorders, birth control medications, and prolonged inactivity.

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Deep vein thrombosis (or DVT) can usually occurs in the leg or arm and is associated with painful swelling.  Other symptoms, particularly for PE, including shortness of breath, chest pain, and tachycardia or a fast heart rate.

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Timely and Appropriate Treatment is Required for Blood Clots

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Physicians can use a variety of tools to diagnose a PE or DVT, including ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT scan), magnetic resonance venogram (MRI), catheter based dye study (conventional veinogram), CT pulmonary angiogram, ventilation perfusion scan (V/Q), and x-ray.

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Blood clots are typically treated with anticoagulants and sequential compression devices (SCD's).  A patient may be placed on a Heparin drip, Warfarin (Coumadin), or Lovenox.  Most people call these medications "blood thinners."

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If you or a loved one have a case involving a blood clot or pulmonary embolism, please contact a Lakeland medical malpractice attorney for a free consultation to discuss the merits of your particular case.  As medical malpractice attorneys, we will examine your medical records and research the medical issues involved to reach a legal opinion on your malpractice case.