PULMONARY EMBOLISM Meaning and
Definition
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Pulmonary embolism is a medical condition characterized by a sudden blockage of one or more arteries in the lungs. It occurs when a blood clot, also known as a thrombus, or another substance like a fat globule or air bubble, travels through the bloodstream from another part of the body and becomes lodged in the pulmonary arteries. These arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs.
The blockage caused by a pulmonary embolism obstructs the flow of blood and prevents oxygen from reaching the lung tissue. As a result, the affected area of the lung may not receive enough oxygen, leading to tissue damage or even death if left untreated.
The symptoms of a pulmonary embolism can vary depending on the size of the blockage and the individual's overall health. Common signs include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, rapid heartbeat, and lightheadedness.
Diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, imaging tests such as a CT scan or pulmonary angiogram, and blood tests. Treatment options range from anticoagulant medications to dissolve the blood clot, to surgical interventions like embolectomy or the placement of a vena cava filter to prevent future clots.
Prompt medical intervention is crucial in cases of pulmonary embolism to prevent further damage and complications. Overall, pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention and appropriate treatment to improve outcomes and prevent recurrence.
Common Misspellings for PULMONARY EMBOLISM
- oulmonary embolism
- lulmonary embolism
- -ulmonary embolism
- 0ulmonary embolism
- pylmonary embolism
- phlmonary embolism
- pjlmonary embolism
- pilmonary embolism
- p8lmonary embolism
- p7lmonary embolism
- pukmonary embolism
- pupmonary embolism
- puomonary embolism
- pulnonary embolism
- pulkonary embolism
- puljonary embolism
- pulminary embolism
- pulmknary embolism
- pulmlnary embolism
Etymology of PULMONARY EMBOLISM
The word "pulmonary embolism" is derived from two separate terms:
1. Pulmonary: The term "pulmonary" is derived from the Latin word "pulmo", which means "lung". The Latin word itself is believed to be derived from the Greek word "pleumon", with the same meaning.
2. Embolism: The term "embolism" comes from the Greek word "embolein", which means "to throw or insert". The Greek word is composed of "em-" (in) and "ballein" (to throw). In medical terms, an embolism refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel by a foreign substance, such as a blood clot or an air bubble.
Similar spelling words for PULMONARY EMBOLISM
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