Remember, DVT + PE = VTE

Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a piece of a blood clot breaks loose into the blood stream and travels to the lungs causing a blockage in a blood vessel in the lungs.

If left untreated, about 1 in 10 people with a DVT will develop a pulmonary embolism.

Some of the signs and symptoms of a PE include:

• Breathlessness – which may come I gradually or suddenly
• Chest pain – which may become worse when you breath in
• Sudden collapse

A pulmonary embolism requires urgent investigation and treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop breathlessness and chest pain.