Serena Williams' pulmonary embolism: Are you at risk of this life-threatening condition?

Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot obstructs one or more arteries in the lungs

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is not a condition that grabs headlines often — unless someone as high profile as Serena Williams mentions it. After her pregnancy, Serena reported that she experienced a pulmonary embolism, bringing the much-needed awareness to this life-threatening condition. However, many women remain unaware of the risks, symptoms, and consequences.

Dr Meera Sinha, a Women’s Health Specialist and Pulmonologist based in Mumbai, says "Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot obstructs one or more arteries in the lungs. It can occur silently and can accelerate quickly."

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Here’s what every woman needs to know about this serious health condition:

Understanding Pulmonary Embolism:

What does this mean? Pulmonary Embolism occurs when a blood clot—usually originating in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT)—travels to the lungs to obstruct blood flow. When this happens, oxygen levels in the body can drop and there will be strain to the heart, and pulmonary embolism can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated quickly. Women are more susceptible to pulmonary embolism particularly during or after pregnancy, while on birth control pills, and on hormone replacement therapy, due to changes in the mechanisms associated with clotting.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

PE can often be mistakenly thought of as a less serious condition. Dr Sinha suggests one should watch out for the following symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism:

• Sudden shortness of breath

• Sharp chest pain that worsens when you take deep breaths

• Coughing, sometimes with bloody mucus

• Fast heart rate

• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

• Swelling or pain in one leg (sign of DVT) If you experience these symptoms, and especially if you have just had surgery or childbirth, or a long flight, you should seek medical attention right away.

Why women are at an increased risk of Pulmonary Embolism

There are a few women-specific health factors that increase the risk for PE:

• Pregnancy and Postpartum Period: The blood may also be more coagulative in pregnancy, and the pressure of the uterus creates potential for reduced blood flow.

• Hormonal therapy with birth control pills: Estrogen-containing medications increase the risk of clotting.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and obesity also add to risk. Serena Williams serves as a reminder that fit and athletic women are not exempt.

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What are the risks if left untreated?

PE can cause exhausting complications, such as the following:

• Lung Damage: A reduction in blood flow can lead to parts of the lung tissue dying.

• Strain on the Heart: The heart has to pump harder to push blood to all the rest of the body's systems through blocked arteries, which can cause further strain on the heart, and heart failure can occur.

• Recurrent: Once you've had a PE, the risk of having another one is higher if left untreated.

Preventive Tips and What Patients Can Do

Dr Sinha recommends that all women, especially those at risk, should:

• Exercise and avoid sitting for long periods of time

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially while traveling

• Consider compression stockings, if prescribed

• Inform your doctors of any family history of clotting disorders

• Get help immediately if you develop unexplained shortness of breath or leg swelling

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.