-
McLeod Health - Speaking of Your Health 4/25/2022
April 25, 2022New Device Rapidly Removes Clots, Restores Blood Flow
A pulmonary embolism is a condition in which one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a blood clot. These blockages reduce the blood flow through the heart and lungs making it more difficult for the lungs to provide oxygen to the body. Eventually, it can progress to decreased oxygen levels and low blood pressure.The blockage of blood flow also puts a strain on the heart’s pumping mechanism since it is unable to push the blood past the clot. In severe cases, heart failure may occur and can lead to a fatal event. It is estimated that pulmonary embolisms cause 100,000 deaths each year, according to the American College of Cardiology.Patients with pulmonary embolisms may experience:· shortness of breath· chest pain that worsens with breathing· a feeling of dizziness· lightheadedness or fainting· irregular heartbeat· heart racing· coughing· fatigueDr. Brian Blaker is an Interventional and Structural Cardiologist with McLeod Cardiology Associates.Dr. Blaker serves as the Medical Director of the McLeod Structural Heart Program. Structural heart disease can be present at birth or develop with age. It refers to defects in the heart’s valves, walls or chambers.Physician and self-referrals are welcome by calling 843-667-1891.McLeod Health | 555 Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29506 Contact:Tracie Fostertfoster@mcleodhealth.org, (843) 777-5493
-
Go
Pages
Members
Categories
Quicklinks
Events