ECG changes in the case of a pulmonary embolism | Symptoms of pulmonary embolism

ECG changes in the case of a pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism is an acute strain on the right heart, which is responsible for pumping blood through the lungs. In pulmonary embolism, the heart has to work against increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation. On the one hand, this leads to an increase in the heartbeat, which is visible in the ECG.

The heartbeat rises to over 100 beats per minute, which is called tachycardia. Furthermore, this right heart strain with more specific symptoms is shown in the ECG, which can give medical personnel an indication of pulmonary embolism. Especially if the rest of the clinical symptoms fit. However, right heart strain can also occur in the context of other diseases. A sign of pulmonary embolism in the ECG would be the so-called S1Q3 type.

Differences in symptoms between men and women

In principle, the symptoms of pulmonary embolism are similar in men and women. However, since pulmonary embolism can occur with a variety of symptoms, none of which are particularly specific, it is not always easy to diagnose. Typical symptoms would be chest pain, coughing with bloody sputum, rapid and shallow breathing and palpitations.

Pulmonary embolisms are more common in women. Symptoms that can only affect women are derived from the causes of pulmonary embolism. In women, these include pregnancy or a previous birth or the use of the pill, which can indicate pulmonary embolism if other appropriate symptoms are present.

Duration of symptoms

The duration of the symptoms that occur in pulmonary embolism depends on the course and severity of the disease, as well as the time it takes to start treatment. The first two hours after the onset of symptoms are critical for the person affected. During this time, the risk of suffering serious complications or dying due to the pulmonary embolism is highest.

For this reason, if pulmonary embolism is suspected, a doctor should always be consulted and no time should be lost. If there is no treatment and the person survives the pulmonary embolism, the body is usually able to dissolve the blood clot itself. As the blood clot dissolves, the symptoms usually subside as well. Whether with or without therapy, the symptoms usually improve when the affected vessel is free again and the lung is once again fully supplied with blood.