Here's a breakdown:
* Embolus: A blood clot, air bubble, or other foreign object that travels through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in a blood vessel.
* Pulmonary artery: The artery that carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.
* Bifurcation: The point where a blood vessel divides into two branches.
Causes:
* Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs.
* Atrial fibrillation: A heart rhythm disorder that increases the risk of blood clots.
* Other conditions: Heart valve problems, certain cancers, and surgery can also increase the risk.
Symptoms:
* Sudden shortness of breath: The most common symptom.
* Chest pain: Can be sharp, stabbing, or aching.
* Cough: May be dry or bring up blood.
* Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing.
* Rapid heart rate: The heart beats faster to try to compensate for the lack of oxygen.
* Low blood pressure: The body is not getting enough oxygen, which can lead to low blood pressure.
Consequences:
* Pulmonary embolism (PE): A blood clot that lodges in the pulmonary artery, blocking blood flow to the lungs.
* Cardiac arrest: If the blood clot is large enough, it can block all blood flow to the lungs, leading to cardiac arrest.
* Death: A saddle embolus can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Treatment:
* Anticoagulants: Medications that prevent blood clots from forming.
* Thrombolytics: Medications that dissolve blood clots.
* Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blood clot.
Prevention:
* Staying active: Regular exercise helps prevent blood clots from forming.
* Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the blood flowing smoothly.
* Compression stockings: These can help prevent blood clots in the legs.
* Anticoagulant medications: If you are at risk of blood clots, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulant medications.
If you experience any of the symptoms of a saddle embolus, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for survival.