Air Embolism

Overview

An air embolism is a rare but serious condition where an air bubble enters a blood vessel. The bubble can block blood flow and cause damage to organs, including the brain, heart, or lungs.

No, air embolism is very rare. Most people will never have one, even if they have surgery or an IV line.

It can affect anyone who has a medical procedure involving needles or catheters, scuba divers, or people with certain injuries such as chest trauma.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Confusion or feeling faint
• Rapid heart rate
• A feeling of numbness or weakness in any part of the body

Symptoms in children

• Trouble breathing or rapid breathing
• Blue or pale lips and skin
• Unusual sleepiness or confusion
• Trouble waking up or poor feeding

Symptoms in older adults

• Severe confusion or sudden memory problems
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Very rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Sudden trouble breathing or chest pain

Causes

Main causes

• Medical procedures that involve placing a needle or catheter into a vein, such as central line insertion or IV therapy
• Surgical procedures, especially on the heart, brain, or neck
• Scuba diving or rapid changes in pressure
• Trauma or injury that lets air enter the bloodstream
• Certain types of lung biopsies or breathing tests

Risk factors

• Having a recent invasive medical procedure
• Being a scuba diver who ascends too quickly
• Having a history of lung disease or injury
• Receiving treatment through a central venous catheter

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you experience sudden breathing problems, chest pain, confusion, weakness, or fainting, call your local emergency number right away.
• If you have symptoms within a few days of a medical procedure or diving, seek urgent care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are recovering from an air embolism, follow your doctor's follow-up plan and report any new or unusual symptoms at your scheduled visits.

Diagnosis

A doctor will do a physical exam, listen to your symptoms, and may order imaging tests to look for an air bubble in your blood vessels.

Tests that may be done

• CT scan (computed tomography) of your chest or head
• Ultrasound, sometimes using a probe placed on your chest
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) if needed
• Blood pressure and oxygen level checks

What to expect at your appointment

If the doctor suspects an air embolism, you will be monitored closely and may need immediate treatment. Your care team will explain each step and keep you as comfortable as possible.

Treatment

Air embolism is treated as an emergency. The main goals are to remove or shrink the air bubble, restore normal blood flow, and support your breathing and circulation.

Self-care at home

• After hospital treatment, rest until your doctor says it is safe to return to normal activities.
• Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your recovery.
• Stay well-hydrated unless your doctor tells you not to.
• Avoid flying or diving for at least a few weeks, or as your doctor advises.

Medical treatments

Treatment may include giving you high levels of oxygen to help the air bubble dissolve more quickly. In some cases, doctors may place a needle or catheter to remove the air from the heart, or use a special chamber that increases pressure (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) to shrink the bubble. The exact approach depends on how severe it is and where the bubble has lodged.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for an air embolism, but in very severe cases, a surgeon may try to remove the air bubble directly or repair a tear in a blood vessel.

Living with this condition

Most people make a full recovery after early treatment, but some may need time to regain strength and energy. Follow your doctor's advice about rest, activity, and any necessary rehabilitation.

Lifestyle tips

• Do not smoke or vape, as this can harm your blood vessels and lungs.
• Avoid risky activities like scuba diving unless your doctor has given you the all-clear.
• Wear medical alert identification if your doctor suggests it, especially if you have a condition that increases your risk.

Diet and exercise

Once your doctor approves, a heart-healthy diet with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help your recovery. Gentle exercise like walking may be beneficial, but always ask your care team first.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Going through a medical emergency can be frightening and stressful. It is normal to feel anxious or worried afterwards. Give yourself time to adjust, and consider talking to a counsellor or mental health professional if you need support.

Prevention

Many air embolisms can be prevented during medical procedures by using proper techniques and equipment. As a patient, you can help by telling your doctor about any new symptoms after a procedure and by following all recovery advice. Scuba divers can reduce risk by following safe diving practices, including slow ascents and safety stops.

Complications

If left untreated

• Blocked blood flow to the brain, leading to stroke-like injury
• Damage to the heart, causing irregular heartbeats or heart failure
• Damage to the lungs, causing severe breathing problems
• In rare cases, death

Long-term outlook

The outlook for air embolism is very good if it is recognised and treated quickly. Even in serious cases, many people recover fully with prompt medical care. The body can often absorb the air bubble over time, and most people go on to live normal, healthy lives.

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