An embolus is a particle, often a blood clot, that moves through the bloodstream and lodges in a blood vessel, obstructing blood flow. It can cause severe complications, particularly in pulmonary health.
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An embolus can originate from various sources such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and travel to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism is a critical condition that requires immediate medical attention due to its potential to impair oxygen exchange.
Nutritional status can influence the risk of thrombus formation; for example, dehydration increases blood viscosity which can contribute to clot formation.
Patients with chronic pulmonary illnesses are at higher risk of developing an embolus due to reduced mobility and other comorbidities.
Anticoagulant therapy is often used as both a treatment and preventive measure for those at risk of developing an embolus.
Review Questions
What are the common origins of an embolus in patients with chronic pulmonary illnesses?
How does nutritional status impact the risk of forming an embolus?
What treatment options are available for preventing or treating an embolus?
Related terms
Thrombus: A stationary blood clot that forms within a blood vessel or the heart.
Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs usually caused by blood clots that travel from the legs or other parts of the body (DVT).
Anticoagulant Therapy: Medication regimen designed to prevent new clots from forming and keep existing clots from getting larger.