A pulmonary embolism is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot usually gets into the arteries of the lungs and blocks them.
This can lead to serious complications and even life-threatening conditions.
Risk factors for pulmonary embolism:
Deep vein thrombosis: the most common risk factor is deep vein thrombosis, in which blood clots form in the deeper veins of the legs. These clots can also travel to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism.
Immobilization: prolonged periods of lying in bed, sitting or standing still can increase the risk of pulmonary embolism.
Surgery: Surgery, especially major surgery such as abdominal surgery, can increase the risk of blood clots and pulmonary embolism.
Heart disease: for example, atrial fibrillation, heart failure or previous heart attack may increase the risk of blood clots.
Cancer: certain cancers, especially abdominal cancers, may increase the risk of blood clots.
Pregnancy and childbirth: the risk of pulmonary embolism also increases during pregnancy and childbirth.
Inherited factors: there are genetic factors that predispose to blood clot formation.
Obesity: Obesity can also increase the risk of pulmonary embolism.
Prevention of pulmonary embolism:
Exercise: Regular exercise can help prevent blood clots. For example, moving your legs regularly while sitting for long periods or lying in bed can help.
Adequate hydration: drinking enough fluids is important to prevent blood clots.
Compression stockings: these stockings can help compress the veins in the leg, reducing the risk of blood clots.
Anticoagulants: in some cases, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulant medicines, especially for people who are at high risk.
Regular check-ups: regular medical check-ups and medical advice on prevention strategies are particularly important for those in the at-risk group.
Lifestyle changes: healthy lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can also help reduce the risk.
Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism:
Clinical examination: the doctor may perform a general physical examination and ask you about your symptoms and risk factors.
Medical history: the doctor will ask you about your medical history and possible risk factors, such as previous blood clots or surgical procedures.
Laboratory tests: blood tests, such as the D-dimer test, can help determine the presence or absence of a blood clot. D-dimer is a compound that is released in the blood when a clot breaks down.
Imaging tests: imaging tests are usually needed to confirm the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. The most commonly used imaging modality is CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), which provides a detailed picture of the condition of the pulmonary arteries.
Emergency treatment:
Pulmonary embolism requires immediate treatment as it can be a life-threatening condition. Treatment aims to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow to the lungs.
Treatment may include:
Anticoagulants: these drugs prevent blood clots and help dissolve existing clots.
Fibrinolytic therapy: Less commonly used, but sometimes drugs such as t-PA (tissue plasminogen activator) may be needed to dissolve the clot.
Embolectomy: Surgical intervention may be needed in some cases to remove the clot. This is usually done in severe cases.
Stabilisation measures: the doctor will provide oxygen and other symptomatic treatments, such as pain relief.
It is important to remember that pulmonary embolism is a serious condition and immediate medical attention should be sought.
Timely diagnosis and treatment is vital for survival and prevention of complications. If you notice any symptoms that may indicate a pulmonary embolism, such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing up blood, call an ambulance or visit a healthcare facility immediately.
As a complementary treatment, balms or aromatherapy can in some cases relieve symptoms of pulmonary embolism, such as chest pain and difficulty breathing, but it is important to stress that these methods should never replace medical treatment and should only be used with the approval of a doctor.
Pulmonary embolism is a serious and life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Balms and aromatherapy with certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus, mint or lavender essential oils, can relieve symptoms affecting the lungs and respiratory system. Inhaling these essential oils or applying them to the skin can help reduce pain and breathing difficulties.
The natural herbal extracts and essential oils in PulmoFresh balm can help ease breathing, soothe coughs and relieve the unpleasant symptoms of colds.
PulmoFresh herbal balm is recommended for colds, coughs and cold symptoms!
Instructions for use
For massage, for rubbing in
Use 3-5 times a day, using a finger amount is recommended. The balm should be applied to the chest and back area, then thoroughly massaged and rubbed in. It is more effective before going to bed, as the essential oils released by the balm, when inhaled, promote a restful sleep
For inhalation
Add 1 teaspoon of PulmoFresh balm to half a litre of hot water and mix well. This will create a vapour which should be inhaled for about 20 minutes.