Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism can be a frightening condition. Characterized by a blockage in the blood system of the lungs, PE is generally caused by a blood clot. This clot can develop in the lungs themselves or can be the result of a deep vein thrombosis, most often in the leg, and then move to the lungs. Because this blockage prevents adequate blood flow to and around the lungs, PE can be life-threatening.

Home Health Care Northridge CA – Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Fortunately being able to detect that it is occurring and getting immediate medical attention can greatly reduce the risk of death and allow for recovery. This starts with knowing the potential signs and symptoms of this condition.

Some of the signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Shortness of breath that is generally very sudden and worsens considerably with exertion
• Chest pain that may feel as though your parent is having a heart attack. This pain can worsen significantly with coughing, stooping, eating, or bending.
• Coughing that is not related to another condition and that may be accompanied by blood
• Swelling in the leg that may indicate that there has been a blood clot in the leg that may have moved to the lungs
• Fever
• Excessive sweating
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Discolored skin
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

If you think that your parent might be suffering from a blood clot or pulmonary embolism, especially if they have risk factors such as family or personal history, it is important to get them medical attention as soon as possible. The medical team can identify if they are, in fact, suffering from such a condition and get them the treatment that is right for them.

Being a family caregiver for your aging parent can be one of the most meaningful choices that you make, but it can also be one of the most challenging. You are likely to find yourself feeling stressed and overwhelmed throughout your experience. This can be particularly true if you are in the sandwich generation caring for both your parent and you children, or if your parent struggles with health challenges or limitations.

Fortunately, home health care can help. A home health care provider can step in to fill care gaps, manage care needs that are sensitive or too challenging for you, provide valuable support and assistance, and ensure that your parent has everything that they need when you are not able to be with them. This will give both of you peace of mind and confidence as they see greater independence, fulfillment, and quality of life throughout their later years.

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/symptoms-causes/syc-20354647

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Health Care Services in Northridge CA, please contact the caring staff at 1Heart Caregiver Services today.