Meet Jane Smith, a 45-year-old Navy veteran who had been experiencing severe chest pain and shortness of breath. Concerned for her health, she rushed to the emergency room, thinking she was having a heart attack. The ER doctors and nurses quickly sprang into action, administering tests and exams to determine the cause of her symptoms.
The initial diagnosis seemed clear: Jane was having a heart attack. But as the medical team dug deeper, they began to notice some inconsistencies in her test results. Her electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood work didn’t quite add up to a heart attack. The doctors ordered more tests, including a CT scan and an echocardiogram, to get a better look at Jane’s heart.
It wasn’t until the CT scan results came back that the medical team stumbled upon the unexpected diagnosis. Jane’s symptoms were not related to a heart condition, but rather a rare condition called a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE occurs when a blood clot forms in the lungs, blocking blood flow and causing symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
The medical team was surprised by the diagnosis, as Jane didn’t exhibit any of the typical risk factors for a PE. She wasn’t overweight, didn’t smoke, and didn’t have a history of blood clots. However, as they dug deeper into her medical history, they discovered that Jane had been on a long flight just a few days prior to her ER visit. Prolonged periods of sitting, such as on a long flight, can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs, which can then break loose and travel to the lungs.
Jane’s diagnosis was a shock to her and her family. “I had no idea what was going on,” Jane said in an interview. “I just knew I was in a lot of pain and couldn’t breathe. I’m just glad the doctors were able to figure out what was wrong with me.”
The medical team quickly sprang into action, administering anticoagulation medication to dissolve the blood clot and prevent further complications. Jane spent several days in the hospital recovering and undergoing treatment.
Jane’s experience highlights the importance of seeking medical attention immediately if symptoms persist or worsen over time. “If I had waited any longer to go to the ER, I could have had serious complications,” Jane said. “I’m just grateful for the quick thinking and expertise of the medical team.”
In addition to seeking medical attention, Jane’s experience also highlights the importance of being aware of one’s own risk factors for certain conditions. “I had no idea that flying could increase my risk of blood clots,” Jane said. “Now I know to take precautions, such as getting up and moving around during long flights.”
Jane’s story serves as a reminder that even the most unexpected diagnoses can have a significant impact on one’s life. By being aware of one’s own risk factors and seeking medical attention promptly, individuals can reduce their risk of complications and improve their overall health outcomes.
