Dear patients, when we examine the concepts of blood stasis and qi stagnation from Donguibogam through the lens of modern medicine, there are striking parallels. Pulmonary embolism in particular is a clear example of how timeless the insights of Donguibogam are. Pulmonary embolism is a serious medical condition where part or all of the pulmonary artery becomes blocked by a thrombus. It occurs primarily when a thrombus formed in the deep veins of the legs detaches, travels through the bloodstream and heart, and obstructs the pulmonary artery. It is much like a massive truck suddenly cutting across lanes on a highway and bringing traffic to a complete standstill.
This thrombus obstructs the blood flow to the lungs, depriving lung tissue of oxygen and placing a severe strain on the heart. Consequently, sudden chest pain, severe dyspnea, cough, dizziness, and in severe cases blood-streaked sputum, or hemoptysis, may appear. Dyspnea occurs even at rest and frequently worsens when lying down, often causing patients distress through the night. The gravity of pulmonary embolism goes far beyond mere discomfort; without prompt medical intervention, it can be fatal. In fact, pulmonary embolism is recognized as a leading cause of sudden death.
Can this condition develop in anyone? While possible, specific risk factors exist. Common examples include prolonged immobility, such as during long flights or following surgery, pregnancy and childbirth, use of an oral contraceptive, cancer, and certain genetic disorders. It is vital to remember that symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, such as leg swelling, numbness, or pain, can be precursor signs of pulmonary embolism. They are warning signs that a thrombus formed in the leg may travel to the lungs at any moment.
If pulmonary embolism is suspected, you should go to the emergency room without delay. Diagnosis is established through chest CT angiography, ventilation-perfusion scans, and echocardiography, while a blood test measuring D-dimer also provides essential evidence. Treatment focuses on administering an anticoagulant to prevent the thrombus from expanding or new clots from forming, and thrombolysis may be considered to dissolve existing clots. In certain cases, surgery is performed to remove the thrombus directly, or a filter is inserted to prevent clots from reaching the lungs.
Just as Donguibogam warned that blood stasis is the source of countless illnesses, modern medicine demonstrates that a thrombus poses a direct threat to life. Rather than viewing it simply as clotted blood, it is essential to appreciate the delicate complexity of our circulatory system and protect it proactively. Our bodies continuously send us signals. Please do not overlook those subtle signs, and listen to what your body is telling you.
