How is pulmonary embolism treated?Â
Pulmonary embolism is a serious medical condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent the blood clot from growing or new clots from forming. Treatment in the UK is strictly managed according to clinical pathways designed to restore blood flow to the lungs and reduce the risk of long term complications. This guide outlines the standard medical interventions, including medications and emergency procedures, used by healthcare professionals to manage this condition effectively.
What We’ll Discuss in This ArticleÂ
- The primary role of anticoagulant medications in treatment.Â
- Different types of blood thinners used in the UK.Â
- Duration of treatment and the importance of follow up care.Â
- Emergency treatments for severe or life threatening clots.Â
- Management of pulmonary embolism during pregnancy.Â
- Key lifestyle considerations during the recovery period.Â
The role of anticoagulant medicationsÂ
The main treatment for pulmonary embolism is anticoagulant medication, which works by changing the chemicals in your blood to stop clots forming easily. The NHS explains that while these medicines are often called blood thinners, they do not actually thin the blood, but instead help prevent existing clots from getting larger while your body naturally absorbs them. Treatment usually begins immediately once a diagnosis is confirmed, or sometimes even while tests are still being conducted if the clinical suspicion is high.
Types of anticoagulants used in the UKÂ
Doctors may prescribe different types of anticoagulants depending on your health history and the severity of the embolism. Initial treatment often involves an injection of heparin, followed by oral tablets such as warfarin or newer medications known as Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs). NICE guidelines recommend DOACs like apixaban or rivaroxaban as first line options for most people because they do not require regular blood tests to monitor their effect. These medications are typically taken for at least three to six months to ensure the risk of recurrence is minimised.
| Medication Type | Administration | Monitoring Required |
| Heparin | Injection (subcutaneous or IV) | Frequent blood tests (for some types) |
| Warfarin | Oral tablet | Regular INR blood tests |
| DOACs (e.g. Apixaban) | Oral tablet | Periodic kidney function checks |
| Thrombolytics | Injection (emergency use) | Intensive hospital monitoring |
Emergency treatments for severe casesÂ
In rare cases where a pulmonary embolism is very large and causes a dangerous drop in blood pressure or heart strain, more intensive emergency treatments are required. These may include thrombolytic therapy, which involves “clot busting” medications injected into a vein to dissolve the blockage quickly. If medications are not suitable or the situation is critical, a surgical procedure called an embolectomy may be performed to manually remove the clot from the pulmonary artery, usually in a specialist hospital setting.
Treatment during pregnancyÂ
Treating a pulmonary embolism during pregnancy requires a specialized approach to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Oral anticoagulants like warfarin or DOACs are generally avoided because they can cross the placenta. Instead, pregnant women are typically treated with daily injections of low molecular weight heparin, which is safe for the developing foetus. This treatment usually continues throughout the pregnancy and for at least six weeks after birth.
ConclusionÂ
Treatment for pulmonary embolism focuses on the use of anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting and allow the body to heal. The choice of medication and duration of treatment are tailored to the individual patient based on their risk factors and UK clinical guidelines. Most people recover well with consistent medication and follow up care from their medical team. If you experience severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, call 999 immediately.
How long will I need to take blood thinners?Â
Most people need treatment for at least 3 to 6 months, though some may need to take them for longer if they have a high risk of another clot.Â
Do I need to stay in hospital during treatment?Â
Many patients can be treated at home after an initial assessment, provided they are stable and can safely take their medication.Â
What are the side effects of anticoagulants?Â
The main side effect is an increased risk of bleeding, so you should be careful to avoid injuries and seek medical advice if you notice unusual bruising.
Can I travel while being treated for a lung clot?Â
You should discuss any travel plans with your doctor, as long periods of immobility can increase the risk of new clots forming.Â
Will the clot in my lung ever fully disappear?Â
In most cases, the body’s natural processes will gradually break down and absorb the clot over several weeks or months.Â
Authority Snapshot (E-E-A-T Block)Â
This guide was produced by the MyPatientAdvice Medical Content Team and reviewed by Dr. Stefan Petrov to provide accurate, evidence based information on pulmonary embolism treatment. The content is strictly aligned with UK clinical standards, following the official guidance provided by the NHS and NICE. This information is intended for public health education and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or personalized treatment plans.
