Final answer:
A heart problem that can lead to a pulmonary embolism includes Deep Vein Thrombosis, when a blood clot from the deep veins breaks off and travels to the lungs. Heart failure, especially of the left side, can also contribute to conditions like pulmonary edema, which puts patients at higher risk for pulmonary embolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
One heart problem that can lead to a pulmonary embolism (PE) is a condition typically associated with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the body, usually the legs. When these clots break loose, they can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a PE. Pulmonary emboli block the pulmonary arteries and disrupt the pulmonary circulation which carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. This disruption can result in severe consequences, including lung damage and instant death, depending on the size and location of the clot.
Additionally, heart failure, particularly on the left side of the heart, can lead to increased pressure in the pulmonary vasculature. This pressure can contribute to conditions such as pulmonary edema, where fluid leaks into the lung tissue, and can put patients at a greater risk of pulmonary embolism. Furthermore, obstructive shock, which can arise from pulmonary embolism among other causes, is a life-threatening condition where blocked blood vessels significantly impact blood flow.