A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot gets stuck in an artery in your lungs. This can block blood flow to your lungs and can be life-threatening. There are a number of things you can do to help prevent a PE, including:
Taking anticoagulant medications. These medications help to prevent blood clots from forming.
Wearing compression stockings. These stockings help to improve blood flow in your legs and can help to prevent blood clots from forming.
Getting regular exercise. Exercise helps to improve blood flow and can help to prevent blood clots from forming.
Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing a PE.
Quitting smoking. Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases your risk of developing a PE.