What are the treatments for the disease?

Once the diagnosis of thromboembolism is made, medications are usually given to help treat the disorder. These may include "clot busting" medications known as thrombolytics. Blood-thinners, such as heparin or coumadin, may also be given to help reduce the chance of new blood clots forming.

In some people, a special filter device is placed inside the main vein below the heart. This can help keep blood clots in the legs from traveling to the lungs and causing death.

In some cases, surgery is needed to manually remove a blood clot. Other care may be needed for damage to different parts of the body. For example, those with a stroke may need someone to feed them or physical therapy for weakness.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

The most worrisome side effect of clot-busting or blood-thinning medications is serious bleeding. Sometimes this can cause bleeding into the brain. The filter procedure and surgery carry a risk of bleeding and infection.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Further treatment may be needed for damage to different areas of the body in some cases. The cause of the thromboembolism may also need further treatment.

How is the disease monitored?

An individual on blood-thinning medications will be tested periodically with clotting tests. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.