A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in the arteries of the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that has traveled from a deep vein in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
This can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the lungs, leading to symptoms like sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or coughing.
A PE is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention and treatment.