An air embolism develops if one or several air bubbles enter a vein or artery and results to blockage. The air bubbles can move to the heart, brain or lungs and cause a stroke, heart attack or even respiratory failure.
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What are the causes?
An air embolism might form if the arteries or veins are unprotected and pressure enables air to move into them. This might occur in various ways such as:
- Injections and surgical procedures – an intravenous line or syringe might inject air into the veins accidentally. The air might also enter the arteries or veins via a catheter.
The individual is placed in a sitting position to stop the embolism from moving to the brain, lungs and heart. - Lung trauma – an air embolism might form if there is damage to the lungs
- Scuba diving – an embolism can occur while scuba diving if the individual holds his/her breath too long while under water or if surfacing from the water rapidly
- Blast and explosion injuries – any injury from a blast explosion can cause the arteries or veins to open. The injury usually occurs in combat scenarios where the force of the explosion can drive air into the damaged arteries or veins.
What are the indications?
A minor case of air embolism can cause mild symptoms or none. As for a severe case, the signs that might manifest include:
- Chest pain or heart failure
- Difficulty breathing
- Joint or muscle pain
- Bluish-tinged skin
- Low blood pressure
- Stroke
- Changes in the mental status such as confusion or loss of consciousness
Treatment for air embolism
The treatment generally has 3 objectives such as:
- Stopping the source of embolism
- Prevent the embolism from causing damage to the body
- Resuscitation, if needed
The individual is placed in a sitting position to stop the embolism from moving to the brain, lungs and heart. Drugs such as adrenaline is given to keep the heart pumping.
If possible, the air embolism is removed via surgery. In addition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is also an option which causes the embolism to shrink to be easily absorbed into the bloodstream without any damage.