If you collapse with suspected massive pulmonary embolism, you require immediate emergency treatment similar to the treatment of shock. If the symptoms of an embolism occur, you must get professional help. Heparin, an anticoagulant helps prevent more blood clots from forming in the lungs and veins. The drug is injected at 4 to 6 hour intervals either under the skin or directly into a vein. The combination of thrombolytic and anticoagulant drug treatment carries the risk of internal bleeding, and careful monitoring of the blood coagulation factors is necessary.
Emergency treatment is required if the embolism is severe.
Internal efforts will be made to control shock. If this is not successful within a short time the blockage can be removed surgically. This is a major operation performed under very risky conditions, and it must be done almost immediately after the embolism occurs. If you survive the critical first few days after an episode of massive pulmonary embolism, you stand a god chance of complete recovery. Chances are even better when the source of the blood clots that are moving through your bloodstream is found and treated.