In most cases, a pulmonary embolism is not fatal. However, pulmonary embolism is a leading cause of hospital deaths and an increasing threat to passengers on long airplane flights. But a few simple measures can go a long way toward preventing pulmonary embolism.

The symptoms of pulmonary embolism can vary greatly, depending on how much of lung is involved, the size of the clot and overall health condition especially the presence or absence of underlying lung or heart disease.

Common signs and symptoms includes sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that often mimics a heart attack, a cough that produces bloody or blood-streaked sputum, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, fainting.

Other signs and symptoms that can occur with pulmonary embolism include wheezing (whistling noise in the bronchi), clammy or bluish-coloured skin, leg swelling, and weak pulse.

Anyone can develop blood clots and subsequent pulmonary embolism. The following factors increase risk like inactivity -- prolong best rest, certain surgical procedures such as major lower abdominal operation, some medical conditions such as cancer, being overweight, pacemakers or venous catheters, pregnancy and childbirth, birth control pills, family history, smoking.

Once diagnosed, you will be treated with medicine that 'thins' the blood (anticoagulants such as heparin and warfarin). This treatment reduces the risk of getting a new embolus. This treatment can last for several months or even for the rest of your life, depending on the risk.

Pulmonary embolism can be prevented with a few simple measures i.e. physical activity, support stockings, drinking plenty of water.

Dr Md Habibe Millat MBBS, FRCS (Edin) is a Senior Specialist Registrar, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Republic of Ireland. [Email: mhmillat@hotmail.com]