What are the causes and risk factors for pulmonary embolism?
Pulmonary embolus is the end result of a deep vein thrombosis or blood clot elsewhere in the body. Most commonly deep vein thrombosis’ are seen in the leg, but can also occur in veins within the abdominal cavity or in the arms. The risk factors for a pulmonary embolism are the same as the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis. These are referred to as Virchow’s triad and include: • prolonged immobilization, alterations in normal blood flow (stasis) • increased clotting potential of the blood (hypercoagulability) • any damage to the walls of the veins. Examples of these include the following: Prolonged immobilization • Extended travel (sitting in a car, airplane, train, etc.) • Hospitalization or prolonged bed rest Increased blood clotting potential • Medications: birth control pills, estrogen • Smoking • Genetic predisposition • Polycythemia(increased number of red blood cells, the opposite of anemia) • Cancer • Pregnancy, including 6-8 weeks post partum • Surgery Damage to vessel wall
