Risk factors for Pulmonary Embolism

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Risk factors for pulmonary embolism include:

• Blood clot in a deep vein of a leg or pelvis
• Increased levels of clotting factors in the blood. Usually caused by cancer (eg, pancreatic)
• Prolonged bed rest, such as during a serious illness
• Major surgery, especially after pelvic surgery, knee replacement, or heart surgery
• Injury to a vein in a leg or pelvis
• Fractures of the hip or thigh bone (femur)
• Heart attack , stroke
• Certain blood disorders
• Prolonged sitting, such as during a long trip
• Pregnancy
• Birth control pills
• Smoking
• Obesity