Does Pulmonary Embolism Go Away?

A pulmonary embolism may dissolve on its own; it is seldom fatal when diagnosed and treated properly. However, if left untreated, it can be serious, leading to other medical complications, including death.

How long does it take for a pulmonary embolism to dissolve?

A DVT or pulmonary embolism can take weeks or months to totally dissolve. Even a surface clot, which is a very minor issue, can take weeks to go away. If you have a DVT or pulmonary embolism, you typically get more and more relief as the clot gets smaller.

Can you fully recover from a pulmonary embolism?

Most patients with DVT or PE recover completely within several weeks to months without significant complications or long-term adverse effects. However, long-term problems can occur, with symptoms ranging from very mild to more severe.