What is an arterial embolism?
An arterial embolism is a clot that causes a sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part. The clot, known as an embolus, can be a blood clot, air bubble, fatty deposit, or other substance that has traveled through the bloodstream from another part of the body. When a clot forms in one location and moves to another, it’s referred to as an embolism. Multiple clots are called emboli, and an arterial embolism may be caused by one or more of these clots.
The most common sites for arterial embolic events are the brain, which can lead to a stroke, and the lower extremities. Arterial embolism is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Arterial embolism symptoms
People with arterial embolism experience symptoms differently based on the location of the clot. Symptoms of an arterial embolism may include:
- Coldness in your arms or legs from lack of blood flow
- Muscle pain or spasms
- Numbness or weakness in a limb
- Pale skin on your arms or legs
- Sudden pain in a limb
- Weak or missing pulse in a limb
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Shortness of breath
Since arterial embolism is a serious condition, it’s important to get medical care as soon as possible. Go to the emergency room or call 911 or your local emergency number if you have symptoms.
How is arterial embolism different from arterial thrombosis?
Both conditions affect how blood flows through blood vessels. However, an arterial embolism is caused by a clot or other object that travels through the blood vessels, while arterial thrombosis (or arterial clot) occurs when a blood clot forms in the blood vessel. Arterial thrombosis symptoms are similar to arterial embolism symptoms, but may also include chest pain, changes in your mental state, and swelling in your limbs.
What causes an arterial embolism?
An arterial embolism can be caused by several things, but the most common cause is due to damage to the arteries from disease or other health conditions. For example, high blood pressure increases the risk for embolism because it can make the arterial walls weak, allowing blood to gather in the artery and form clots.
In addition, clots can be caused by the following:
- Heart disease
- High cholesterol
- Fatty deposits in the arteries
- Injury to the arteries
- Intravenous (IV) drug use
- Irregular heartbeat
- Smoking
- Surgery
Can I prevent an arterial embolism?
If treated promptly, most people successfully recover from arterial embolism. However, there’s a possibility that another clot can occur after treatment, so making lifestyle changes and working with your doctor to manage your health can help reduce your chances.
- Refrain from smoking or tobacco use
- Stay physically active
- Work to manage your blood pressure
- Lower your cholesterol
- Control your diabetes (if applicable)
- Manage your weight
- Reduce stress