Embolus

Embolus is a medical term referring to an unattached mass that travels through the bloodstream and is capable of clogging arterial capillary beds. This can lead to tissue death or infarction. Emboli are usually blood clots, but they can also be fat globules, air bubbles, or other substances.

Types of Emboli

There are several types of emboli, including:

• Thromboembolism: This is the most common type of embolus. It is a blood clot that has formed in one part of the body and travels to another part of the body.
• Fat Embolism: This type of embolus is composed of fat particles and usually occurs after a bone fracture or major trauma.
• Air Embolism: This type of embolus is composed of air bubbles. It can occur during certain medical procedures or from decompression sickness.
• Amniotic Fluid Embolism: This rare type of embolus occurs when amniotic fluid enters the mother's bloodstream during childbirth.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an embolus depend on where the embolus lodges in the body. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Rapid heart rate

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an embolus often involves imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI. Blood tests may also be used to detect certain substances that are released when a clot forms and then breaks apart.

Treatment

Treatment for an embolus depends on the type of embolus and where it is located. Treatments may include:

• Anticoagulants: These are medications that prevent clots from forming.
• Thrombolytics: These are medications that dissolve clots.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the embolus.

Prevention

Prevention of emboli involves reducing risk factors for clot formation, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

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  Animation of a blood clot forming

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  Recent pulmonary thromboembolus