Sudden chest pain... Trouble breathing...Coughing up blood... A pulmonary embolism can be one of the scariest medical experiences to endure. Even more frightening is embolisms usually come on with absolutely no warning, and they can be downright deadly. Would you know what to look for? 

Read on to learn more about pulmonary embolism and ways to reduce risk. 

What is a pulmonary embolism? 

With a heart attack, arteries that lead to the heart are blocked. Similarly, blood clots that form in veins all over the body can travel to the lungs. These ticking time bombs are known as embolisms – and death may occur within the hour. According to American Nurse Today, up to 26 percent of pulmonary embolism cases are fatal. In the United States alone, an estimated 780,000 cases occur annually, according the report. 

How to Spot Pulmonary Embolism 

Because of the sudden onset of a pulmonary embolism, it can be difficult to treat with the urgent attention the affliction requires. But if you're diligent and observant, these symptoms should raise major red flags: 

• shortness of breath;
• dry coughing;
• coughing up blood;
• sudden chest pain;
• low blood pressure;
• low blood oxygen; or
• loss of consciousness. 

While some of these warning signs are easy to spot, others require a diagnosis form a doctor. On a positive note, there are measures that can reduce the risk of a pulmonary embolism. And it all begins – and often ends – with lifestyle choices and changes. 

Take a Crack at Cardio

If you have a history of embolisms, keep those wheels turning. Prevent future incidents by constantly moving around after waking up from bed. Be active. 

You might be a bit self-conscious about putting yourself out there in the gym, but did you know that exercise is essential for proper blood flow? Regular daily movement is essential, but the day-to-day doings won't necessarily cut the mustard. It's important to engage in activities that raise the heart rate. Whether it's Zumba, Spinning or Silver Sneakers classes, pump up the volume. 

If the gym leaves you feeling self-conscious, step it up in the comfort of your own home. Get a Nintendo Wii, the Zumba video game and the floor board, and dance to your heart's content in private. 

Another activity you'll love? Tennis or racquetball. Hit the courts as a way to keep the blood flowing. If sports aren't your thing, power walk or jog. Like Nike says, just do it – whatever "it" may be. Be sure to consult with your physician before starting a new exercise regimen. 

Travel with Care 

Put your best foot forward. Even the most mundane movements can prevent those clots from forming. Exercise your leg muscles, especially while on long car trips and airline flights. The more you move, the better the circulation. The better the circulation, the less chance of any clots forming that may travel to the lungs. 

Regardless of what you do for fitness, it's important to prevent clots by moving around in situations when you ordinarily cannot. Traveling by plane or car means being virtually immobile for hours at a time. Take frequent breaks to walk and drink plenty of fluids during and after the trip. If the doctor believes there's a heightened risk of clots, then he or she may recommend preventive medication for the trip. 

Wear the Right Socks 

It's true. The wrong kind of socks can mean the difference between life and death. Any kind of pressure put on the circulatory system can cause problems. When blood can't circulate, there's an increased risk of clotting. Thankfully, "elastic compression" stockings can actually assist in the process. 

A sleeve-like garment worn on the legs during any activity can ensure that the legs are compressed regularly to keep the blood flowing. A doctor or surgeon may prescribe compression garments during and after surgery. 

Low-Dose Aspirin 

It's normally used for headaches, and other aches and pains, but aspirin, the main ingredient found in some over-the-counter headache medicines, can decrease the risk of blood clots.

A doctor may recommend a low-dose aspirin regimen. A standard dose usually isn't prescribed daily because of other side effects. Talk with your doctor before you add this or any over-the-counter medication to your daily routine. 

Drink a Lot of Water 

The health benefits of drinking water are endless – calorie control, healthy kidneys, glowing skin...the list goes on. Add embolism prevention to the list Hydration is key to preventing pulmonary embolisms. Dehydration contributes to blood clot formation, which may increase the risk of pulmonary embolism. Drink water throughout the day. 

See the Doctor Often 

Regular checkups are a necessity, plain and simple. Your doctor can offer more insight as to your own personal health and what you should do to reduce your risk of blood clots. Should you need surgery, the doctor will know how best to prevent pulmonary embolisms. 

An Ounce of Prevention 

When it comes to preventing a pulmonary embolism, common sense prevails. The general rules for wellness are just what the doctor ordered. Discuss your risk with your doctor and any measures you can take to reduce your chances. By being proactive, you can potentially stave off many scary medical conditions, like pulmonary embolism.