Air Hunger? Why Your Lungs Are Starving: Pulmonary Embolism Next Steps

That sudden feeling of not getting enough air—often described as "air hunger"—can be frightening. While shortness of breath can have many causes, one serious condition that should never be ignored is pulmonary embolism.

A pulmonary embolism (PE) happens when a blood clot—usually from the leg—travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow. This blockage prevents part of the lung from receiving enough blood, which can reduce oxygen levels in the body. Without prompt treatment, a pulmonary embolism can become life-threatening.

The good news? When recognized early, a pulmonary embolism is treatable. Knowing the symptoms and next steps can make all the difference.

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What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?

A pulmonary embolism is typically caused by a blood clot that forms in a deep vein in the leg, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When part of that clot breaks loose, it can travel through the bloodstream and lodge in the lungs.

Once in the lungs, the clot:

• Blocks blood flow
• Reduces oxygen exchange
• Forces the heart to work harder
• Can damage lung tissue

The severity of a pulmonary embolism depends on the size of the clot and how much of the lung is affected.

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What Does "Air Hunger" Feel Like?

People with a pulmonary embolism often describe:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• A feeling that they can't take a deep breath
• Chest pain that may worsen with deep breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Lightheadedness or fainting

Some may also experience:

• Cough (sometimes with blood)
• Leg pain or swelling, usually in one leg
• Warmth or redness in the calf

Symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually over hours to days. Not everyone has all symptoms. That's why awareness matters.

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Who Is at Risk for Pulmonary Embolism?

Anyone can develop a pulmonary embolism, but certain factors increase risk.

Common Risk Factors

• Recent surgery (especially orthopedic or abdominal)
• Long periods of immobility (long flights, bed rest)
• Recent hospitalization
• Cancer
• Pregnancy or recent childbirth
• Birth control pills or hormone therapy
• Smoking
• Obesity
• A history of blood clots
• Family history of clotting disorders

If you have several of these risk factors and develop sudden shortness of breath, do not ignore it.

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Why Pulmonary Embolism Is Serious

A pulmonary embolism can:

• Strain the right side of the heart
• Lower oxygen levels in the blood
• Cause permanent lung damage
• Lead to shock in severe cases

Large or untreated clots can be fatal. However, many pulmonary embolisms are small and treatable when caught early.

The key is timely medical evaluation.

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What To Do If You Suspect a Pulmonary Embolism

If you experience:

• Sudden unexplained shortness of breath
• Chest pain with breathing
• Fainting
• Coughing up blood

Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Do not attempt to "wait it out." A pulmonary embolism is not something that resolves safely on its own.

If your symptoms are milder but concerning—such as new shortness of breath with risk factors—you should contact a healthcare professional the same day.

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How Doctors Diagnose Pulmonary Embolism

Diagnosing a pulmonary embolism often involves several steps.

1. Medical History and Physical Exam

Your doctor will ask about:

• Symptoms
• Recent travel
• Surgeries
• Medications
• Family history

2. Blood Tests

A D-dimer test can help rule out clots in low-risk patients.

3. Imaging

The most common imaging tests include:

• CT pulmonary angiography (CT scan with contrast)
• Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan
• Ultrasound of the legs to look for DVT

4. Heart Testing

In moderate or severe cases:

• Echocardiogram
• EKG

Diagnosis is based on combining symptoms, risk factors, and imaging findings.

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Treatment for Pulmonary Embolism

Treatment depends on severity, but the primary goal is to stop the clot from growing and prevent new clots.

Common Treatments

Anticoagulants (blood thinners)

• Heparin
• Warfarin
• Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs)

These medications do not dissolve the clot immediately. Instead, they allow the body to break it down naturally over time.

Thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs)

• Used in severe cases
• Given in emergency situations

Procedures

• Catheter-based clot removal
• Surgical removal (rare, severe cases)

Treatment duration varies. Some patients need blood thinners for:

• 3–6 months
• 12 months
• Long-term (if high risk of recurrence)

Your doctor will determine what's appropriate for you.

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Recovery and What to Expect

Many people recover fully from a pulmonary embolism, especially with early treatment.

However, some may experience:

• Fatigue for weeks to months
• Mild shortness of breath during recovery
• Anxiety about recurrence

In rare cases, a condition called chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) can develop, where persistent clots cause long-term lung pressure issues.

Follow-up care is essential.

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Preventing Pulmonary Embolism

Prevention focuses on reducing clot risk.

Helpful Strategies

• Stay active and avoid long periods of sitting
• Stand and stretch during long flights
• Stay hydrated
• Follow post-surgery mobility plans
• Wear compression stockings if prescribed
• Take blood thinners exactly as directed

If you've had a pulmonary embolism before, prevention becomes even more important.

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When Air Hunger Is Not a Pulmonary Embolism

Not every episode of shortness of breath is a pulmonary embolism.

Other possible causes include:

• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Heart conditions
• COVID-19
• Anemia

That said, distinguishing between these conditions on your own can be difficult. If symptoms are new, severe, or unexplained, medical evaluation is necessary.

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Should You Check Your Symptoms?

If you're unsure whether your symptoms could point to a serious condition, you can use a free AI-powered Pulmonary Embolism symptom checker to help evaluate your risk and determine whether you should seek immediate care.

However, an online tool is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation—especially for potentially life-threatening conditions.

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The Bottom Line

A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that can cause sudden air hunger and chest discomfort. It occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow in the lungs. While it can be life-threatening, early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Remember:

• Sudden shortness of breath should never be ignored.
• Chest pain with breathing is a warning sign.
• Risk factors like recent surgery or immobility increase concern.
• Treatment is available and effective.
• Many people recover fully with proper care.

If you suspect a pulmonary embolism or experience symptoms that could be serious, seek immediate medical attention. Always speak to a doctor about symptoms that are severe, sudden, or potentially life-threatening.

Breathing should feel effortless. If it doesn't, your body is telling you something important. Listen to it—and act.