Can a pulmonary embolism be detected by an X-ray?

Written by An Yong Peng
Pulmonology
Updated on February 11, 2025
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Pulmonary embolism cannot be detected by X-ray. Although in rare cases, some signs might appear on an X-ray, such as localized sparse lung markings, these signs are typically not characteristic. For conditions like pulmonary embolism, color Doppler ultrasound can be used to assist in diagnosis. If the ultrasound suggests deep vein thrombosis in the legs along with pulmonary hypertension, it indicates a high possibility of pulmonary embolism. Additionally, testing for D-dimer and blood gas analysis can also help in diagnosing pulmonary embolism. CT pulmonary angiography can also be used to diagnose the condition. CT and pulmonary angiography have a high diagnostic value for pulmonary embolism, and most cases can be definitively diagnosed through these tests.

Other Voices

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
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Is there a lot of phlegm in pulmonary embolism?

Pulmonary embolism is a relatively common acute disease in clinical practice. It usually occurs when blood clots from the veins in the legs or pelvis detach, travel through the bloodstream to the pulmonary arteries, and cause an embolism. The onset of this disease is often very sudden. Due to different triggers, the clinical symptoms vary. Typical symptoms of pulmonary embolism include difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, and coughing. Coughs are often dry, and patients may also have a small amount of white sputum. Some patients might even experience wheezing and other clinical symptoms. Therefore, the occurrence of excessive sputum is rare in patients with pulmonary embolism.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Why do patients with pulmonary embolism feel sleepy?

Patients with pulmonary embolism primarily suffer from emboli within the venous system, which travel back to the right heart and then become lodged in the pulmonary artery, forming a pulmonary artery thrombus. This reduces pulmonary blood flow and impacts the exchange of air in the lungs, leading to hypoxia in the patient. Following hypoxia, the brain tends to enter a sleepy state, thus many patients with pulmonary embolism exhibit sleepiness. This sleepiness is related to the pathophysiological mechanisms of pulmonary embolism. At this point, it is crucial to provide sufficient oxygen to the patient to address their hypoxemia. Ultimately, the most fundamental treatments are prompt thrombolysis or anticoagulation therapy to resolve the embolus, addressing the condition fundamentally.

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Written by Wei Shi Liang
Intensive Care Unit
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How long does the treatment for pulmonary embolism take?

The timing of pulmonary embolism treatment mainly depends on the severity of the pulmonary embolism. The main goals of pulmonary embolism treatment are to save lives by addressing life-threatening right heart dysfunction and obstructive shock caused by the pulmonary embolism, to re-establish pulmonary vascular patency, restore lung tissue perfusion, and prevent the recurrence of pulmonary embolism. Main treatment methods include: respiratory and circulatory support, anticoagulation, thrombolysis, interventional or surgical removal of blood clots, placement of inferior vena cava filters, etc. General management: Patients who are highly suspected or diagnosed with pulmonary embolism should be closely monitored, tracking changes in respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, venous pressure, electrocardiogram, and blood gases to prevent the dislodgement of clots again. Absolute bed rest is required, and care should be taken not to overly bend the lower limbs, maintain bowel regularity, and avoid straining. For patients experiencing anxiety and panic symptoms, reassurance should be provided, along with appropriate use of sedatives. If there is chest pain, analgesics may be administered. For symptoms like fever and cough, corresponding symptomatic treatments should be given. To prevent lung infections and treat phlebitis, antibiotics may be used. Additionally, support treatments for respiratory and circulatory functions, as well as anticoagulation therapy, should be provided.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Why should one lie flat for acute pulmonary embolism?

When acute pulmonary embolism occurs, it is primarily due to a thrombus from the venous system being carried by the venous blood flow back to the right heart, and then due to the ejection from the right heart, this thrombus gets lodged in the pulmonary artery, forming a pulmonary embolism. After the onset of pulmonary embolism, the primary treatment measure is to have the patient lie down and remain still. The reason is mainly that if the patient is standing or moving, it is very likely that the thrombus in the venous system could continue to detach and move within the venous system. This can worsen the symptoms of pulmonary embolism or lead to new embolic sites, so the treatment for the patient involves immobilization and lying down to avoid further movement, making this the most basic approach to treatment.

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Written by An Yong Peng
Pulmonology
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Can pulmonary embolism cause bloating and abdominal distension?

Pulmonary embolism can, in rare cases, cause bloating and abdominal distension. The primary clinical manifestations of pulmonary embolism are chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Severe pulmonary embolism can also lead to a drop in blood pressure and sometimes may even cause the patient to faint. However, it is important to note that in severe cases of pulmonary embolism, patients may also experience abdominal distension. Patients with pulmonary embolism might also have acute pulmonary heart disease, which could include symptoms of gastrointestinal congestion. In such cases, patients may experience abdominal bloating. Additionally, there is a special condition known as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, where patients may experience chronic pulmonary heart disease and chronic hypoxia, which can also lead to abdominal distension.