Talking to Your Doctor about Pulmonary Embolism

What to expect

A cardiologist will ask you questions about your general health and symptoms you are having. They will want to know about any medication you are currently taking so please bring them or a list with you. They will make a full assessment of your condition and explain appropriate treatment options.

What questions to ask

If I become pregnant, will this affect my anticoagulation treatment?

Will my pulmonary embolism (PE) affect any of my existing medical conditions?

Will my PE treatment affect any of my existing medications?

If I have dental work and am taking an anticoagulant, can I carry on taking my medications?

If I am breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, will I need an alternative anticoagulant?

I am thinking about playing contact sports such as rugby, will this increase my risk of bleeding?/p>

Do I need to alter my lifestyle?

Can I still go on holiday and go on flights?

Can I take medications or herbal medicines?

How can I prevent recurring thrombosis?

How might you feel?

PE impacts on both you the individual and on your family/carer. Those close to you will naturally be worried about your health and wellbeing. If you experience PE-like symptoms or have recently had a diagnosis of PE, it is understandable if you feel nervous, anxious or apprehensive about the condition.