Pulmonary Embolism Risk Factors: What Increases Your Chances and How to Stay Safe

A pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that travels from the legs. Also known as PE, it’s not something that just happens out of nowhere—it’s often the result of other conditions you can see coming. Most of the time, these clots start as deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. If that clot breaks loose, it can travel straight to your lungs and block blood flow. That’s when things turn dangerous fast.

So what actually puts you at risk? Sitting still for too long is one of the biggest. Think long flights, bed rest after surgery, or even just watching TV for hours without moving. immobility, the lack of regular movement that slows blood flow and lets clots form is a silent trigger. Other major risks include recent surgery—especially hip or knee replacements—cancer, pregnancy, and certain genetic conditions that make your blood clot more easily. If you’re over 60, smoke, take birth control pills, or have had a previous clot, your risk goes up even more. It’s not about being scared—it’s about knowing what to watch for.

And here’s the thing: many people don’t realize they’re at risk until it’s too late. That’s why understanding your personal triggers matters. If you’ve had a clot before, your doctor might put you on anticoagulant therapy, medications that thin your blood to prevent new clots from forming. But even without medication, small changes help. Walk around every hour on long trips. Do ankle circles while sitting. Stay hydrated. Don’t ignore swelling or pain in one leg—it could be a warning sign. The goal isn’t to live in fear, but to take control of what you can.

The posts below give you real, practical info on how these risks play out in real life. You’ll find guides on what to do after surgery, how certain medications affect clotting, and what symptoms to never ignore. No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, actionable details from people who’ve been there. Whether you’re managing a condition, caring for someone at risk, or just want to stay safe, this collection has what you need to make smarter choices.