Question

What are the two major treatments of pulmonary embolus?

Answer 1

The two major treatments for pulmonary embolism (PE) are anticoagulant therapy and thrombolytic therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two major treatments for pulmonary embolism (PE) are anticoagulant therapy and thrombolytic therapy.

1. Anticoagulant therapy: This involves the administration of medications that prevent blood clot formation and help dissolve existing clots. Commonly used anticoagulants include heparin and warfarin. These medications work by inhibiting clotting factors in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of further clot formation.
2. Thrombolytic therapy: This treatment involves the administration of medications called thrombolytic agents, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), that actively dissolve and break up blood clots. Thrombolytic therapy is often used in more severe cases of PE or when other treatments are ineffective.

The dual approach addresses the immediate threat of clot progression while preventing the formation of new clots, optimizing the management of pulmonary embolism and improving patient outcomes.