How long does it take a blood clot to travel your lungs or heart?

Blood clots can travel to the lungs or heart within seconds or minutes. The time it takes depends on the location of the clot and the size of the clot. A clot that forms in a large vein, such as the deep veins of the leg, can travel to the lungs or heart more quickly than a clot that forms in a small vein.

Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs. PE can be a life-threatening condition, as it can block blood flow to the lungs and cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing.

Coronary artery embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the heart. Coronary artery embolism can cause a heart attack, as it can block blood flow to the heart muscle. Heart attack symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea.

If you experience symptoms of a PE or heart attack, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for PE and heart attack may include medications to dissolve the blood clot, surgery to remove the blood clot, and oxygen therapy.