Air embolism

Fact Checked

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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKn9ggti2lw

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.
    Air embolism
    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.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The information posted on this page is for educational purposes only.
If you need medical advice or help with a diagnosis contact a medical professional

  • All firstaidcprottawa.ca content is reviewed by a medical professional and / sourced to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

  • We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable websites, academic research institutions and medical articles.

  • If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us through our contact us page.