What Really Causes Pulmonary Embolism? Major Risk Factors Explained

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow. 

These clots most often form in the deep veins of the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and can move silently through the bloodstream before causing sudden, severe symptoms.

What makes pulmonary embolism especially dangerous is that many people don’t recognize the early warning signs of clot formation. Subtle symptoms may be ignored or mistaken for muscle strain, fatigue, or shortness of breath from everyday activity. 

When diagnosis is delayed, the risk of complications, including long-term lung damage, heart strain, or even death, increases significantly.

Understanding the most common risk factors for pulmonary embolism is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk and catch problems early. With timely evaluation and preventive care, many pulmonary embolisms can be avoided altogether.

If you’re concerned about your clotting risk, the specialists at the Cardiovascular Center of Florida can help you assess your vascular health and take proactive steps to protect your heart and lungs.

What Are the Main Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism?

Most pulmonary embolisms begin as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. If part of that clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, it can block vital blood flow and oxygen exchange.

Pulmonary embolism risk factors vary widely and may include:

• Lifestyle factors
• Underlying medical conditions
• Certain medications or hormone therapies
• Genetic or inherited clotting disorders

Often, it’s a combination of factors that increases risk. That’s why awareness and early evaluation are so important.

5 Major Risk Factors for Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism can develop without obvious warning, but the following factors are known to significantly increase the risk of dangerous blood clots.

1. Prolonged Immobility

Long periods of sitting or inactivity slow blood circulation, especially in the legs. This commonly occurs during:

• Long flights or road trips
• Desk-based or sedentary work
• Extended bed rest due to illness or injury

When blood pools in the lower legs, clot formation becomes more likely. Regular movement, even brief standing or walking breaks, helps keep blood flowing and reduces clot risk.

2. Recent Surgery or Physical Trauma

Surgery is one of the strongest pulmonary embolism risk factors, particularly:

• Orthopedic procedures (hip or knee surgery)
• Abdominal or pelvic surgery
• Major trauma from accidents or injuries

Surgical recovery often involves limited mobility, and tissue injury can activate the body’s clotting response. Following postoperative prevention plans, such as early movement, compression devices, or medications, is critical for reducing risk.

3. Underlying Medical Conditions

Several health conditions increase clotting potential, including cancer, heart failure, chronic inflammatory diseases, and inherited or acquired clotting disorders.

Hormonal factors also play a role. Pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, and some birth control pills can raise the risk of blood clots, especially when combined with other risk factors.

For individuals with chronic conditions, regular monitoring and preventive care are essential.

4. Personal or Family History of Blood Clots

Genetics can strongly influence clot risk. People with hereditary thrombophilia have blood that clots more easily than normal.

Additionally, anyone who has previously experienced DVT or pulmonary embolism has a higher risk of recurrence. A family history of blood clots should never be overlooked, as early evaluation can be lifesaving.

5. Smoking and Poor Cardiovascular Health

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases clotting activity throughout the body. 

When combined with other cardiovascular risk factors, such as obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, the risk of pulmonary embolism rises even further. 

Improving overall cardiovascular health significantly lowers long-term clot risk and supports healthy circulation.

Important: If you experience symptoms such as sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, or unexplained leg swelling, seek immediate medical attention. You should also schedule a vascular evaluation at the Cardiovascular Center of Florida to assess your risk.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Pulmonary Embolism

Many cases of pulmonary embolism are preventable with early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and guided medical care.

Risk-reduction strategies may include:

• Staying physically active and avoiding long periods of inactivity
• Wearing compression stockings when recommended
• Staying well hydrated
• Managing chronic conditions effectively

For people at higher risk, blood-thinning medications or specialized vascular evaluations may be necessary. Prevention plays a critical role in reducing complications and protecting long-term heart and lung health.

If you have risk factors or concerns, scheduling a cardiovascular or DVT screening can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Pulmonary Embolism

Healthy circulation starts with everyday habits:

• Regular exercise and movement
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Taking standing or stretching breaks during long periods of sitting
• Drinking enough water throughout the day

Even small, consistent changes can greatly reduce clotting risk. Long-term vascular health depends on proactive, preventive care, not just treatment after symptoms appear.

Schedule Your Cardiovascular Evaluation at the Cardiovascular Center of Florida

Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition, but understanding the risk factors for pulmonary embolism empowers you to take action before a crisis occurs.

The Cardiovascular Center of Florida offers advanced diagnostic imaging, DVT evaluations, and personalized cardiovascular care designed to identify clotting risks early and help prevent pulmonary embolism before it becomes life-threatening.

If you’re concerned about your risk or simply want to protect your long-term health, schedule a professional cardiovascular assessment today. Early detection saves lives.