An arterial embolism is a blood clot that has travelled through your arteries and become stuck. This can block or restrict blood flow. Clots generally affect the arms, legs, or feet. An embolism is anything that obstructs blood flow. The plural of embolism is emboli. A blood clot is also known as a thrombus.
A single clot can cause more than one embolism. Pieces may break free and get stuck in other parts of the body. Some emboli travel to the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys.
When an artery is blocked, it can cause tissue damage or death in the affected area. Because of this, an arterial embolism is a medical emergency. It requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent injury.
What causes an arterial embolism?
Several things may cause an arterial embolism. Damage to the arteries by disease or other health conditions is one major cause. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of an embolism. Having high blood pressure weakens the arterial walls, making it easier for blood to accumulate in the weakened artery and form clots.
Other common causes of blood clots include:
Smoking
Hardening of the arteries from high cholesterol
Surgery that affects blood circulation
Injuries to the arteries
Heart disease
Atrial fibrillation — a type of rapid and irregular heartbeat
What are the symptoms of arterial embolism?
The symptoms of this condition depend on the location of the embolism. If you have any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
You may notice some of the following symptoms in an armour leg after an embolism has formed:
Coldness
Lack of pulse
Lack of movement
Tingling or numbness
Pain or spasms in the muscles
Pale skin
A feeling of weakness
These symptoms will likely be asymmetrical, appearing only on the side of your body with the embolism.
Symptoms that may occur if an embolism is not treated or worsens include:
Ulcers (open sores)
An appearance of shedding skin
Tissue death
Who is at risk for an arterial embolism?
A variety of lifestyle factors can increase your risk of developing an arterial embolism. You may be at risk if you:
Smoke tobacco products
Have high blood pressure
Have had recent surgery
Have heart disease
Eat a diet high in cholesterol
Have an abnormally fast heart rate
Are obese
Live a sedentary lifestyle
Are of advanced age
How is an arterial embolism diagnosed?
Your doctor may check for a decrease in your pulse or heart rate, as the lack of a local pulse may indicate tissue death. Your doctor may also use diagnostic and imaging tests to locate any emboli present in your body. Common tests include:
Angiogram — examines the blood vessels for abnormalities
Doppler ultrasound — watches blood flow
MRI — takes images of the body to locate blood clots
How is an arterial embolism treated?
Embolism treatment depends on the size and location of the clot. It can involve medication, surgery, or both. The ultimate goal is to break up the clot and restore proper circulation.
Medications
Medications used to treat arterial emboli include:
Anticoagulants, to prevent blood clots
Thrombolytics, to destroy existing emboli
Intravenous pain medications
Surgery
Angioplasty may be performed to bypass a clot. It’s a technique used to open up blocked or narrowed blood vessels. A balloon catheter is inserted into an artery and guided to the clot. Once there, it’s inflated to open up the blocked vessel. A stent may be used to support the repaired walls.
How can an arterial embolism be prevented?
To help improve your blood circulation, you can:
Avoid smoking
Refrain from eating foods high in fats and cholesterol
Exercise several times a week
What is the long-term outlook?
Your recovery will depend on how long you’ve had the embolism, the location of the clot, and the severity.
Many people recover successfully from emboli. However, an embolism can recur after treatment, so it’s important to be aware of your symptoms and talk to your doctor if you may have an arterial embolism. Quick treatment is key to preventing permanent damage to the affected area.
No comments: