Pulmonary Embolus

A pulmonary embolus, or pulmonary embolism, occurs when a clot (often coming from the veins in the legs) travels through the bloodstream and blocks an artery in the lung, making it harder for blood to pass through.

Common symptoms: It usually presents with sudden-onset difficulty breathing, chest pain that worsens with inhaling, and sometimes cough or a feeling of lightheadedness.

When should you see a doctor? The sudden onset of shortness of breath or chest pain is a situation that requires immediate attention, since it can compromise breathing and circulation.

Which specialist treats it? Evaluation usually falls to the pulmonologist and the cardiologist, and in the acute setting the emergency physician is involved. If you notice suspicious signs, the safest choice is to seek professional evaluation without delay.