Lady Joan Sarah Drummond Branson, wife of billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, died from a blood clot in her lungs following a fall, an inquest heard.

Lady Branson, 80, died at The Lister Hospital in Chelsea on 24 November last year after suffering a fall and sustaining a back injury. At a pre-inquest hearing, an expert reportedly told the court there was 'clear evidence of pulmonary embolism', while the 'overwhelming likelihood' was that she had also suffered deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

A full inquest examined the circumstances surrounding her death, including whether blood-thinning medication and anti-clot stockings should have been used. But what exactly is a pulmonary embolism, and what warning signs should people know?

What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel supplying the lungs. The clot often develops in a deep vein in the leg, known as DVT, before breaking away and travelling through the bloodstream to the lungs.

PE can become life-threatening because the blockage can interfere with blood flow through the lungs and put significant strain on the heart. NHS guidance advises seeking urgent medical attention when symptoms suggest a pulmonary embolism.

Blood clots are also a significant health concern in the UK. An Imperial College London research summary states that DVT and PE together cause more than 25,000 deaths each year in the UK.

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What Are the Warning Signs of a Pulmonary Embolism?

Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the clot. The most common warning sign is sudden breathlessness, which may occur even when someone is resting.

Other symptoms can include:

  • Sudden chest pain, which may become worse when breathing or coughing
  • A rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Coughing, sometimes with blood
  • Dizziness or feeling light-headed
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Sweating or feeling suddenly unwell

Larger pulmonary embolisms can cause more severe symptoms, including collapse.

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Leg?

Because many pulmonary embolisms originate from DVT, recognising symptoms in the legs can also be important.

DVT may cause swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, or redness, usually affecting one leg rather than both. However, some DVTs produce few or no obvious symptoms.

If someone has symptoms of DVT alongside sudden breathlessness or chest pain, NHS guidance recommends calling 999 or going to A&E immediately.

Who Is at Risk?

The risk of developing blood clots can increase with factors including prolonged immobility, recent surgery or hospitalisation, certain medical conditions, previous blood clots, pregnancy, and some cancer treatments.

Age can also influence risk. Reduced movement after an injury or illness may further increase the likelihood of a clot forming.

In Lady Branson's case, reports have indicated she had a history of blood clots. The inquest examined her medical history and whether preventative measures were appropriate at the time of her death. Importantly, having one risk factor does not mean someone will develop a pulmonary embolism.

When Should You Seek Emergency Help?

A pulmonary embolism can develop suddenly, and symptoms should not be ignored. Severe or sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or collapse require urgent medical attention.

The NHS advises calling 999 if PE is suspected rather than driving yourself to hospital. Rapid treatment can be life-saving.

The inquest concluded that the lack of preventative blood-thinning medication probably caused or contributed to Lady Branson's death.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a pulmonary embolism?
    A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel supplying the lungs, often originating from a deep vein thrombosis in the leg.
  • What are the warning signs of a pulmonary embolism?
    Warning signs include sudden breathlessness, chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, coughing (sometimes with blood), dizziness, fainting, and sweating.
  • Who is at risk of developing a pulmonary embolism?
    Risk factors include prolonged immobility, recent surgery, certain medical conditions, previous blood clots, pregnancy, and some cancer treatments.
  • When should you seek emergency help for a pulmonary embolism?
    Seek emergency help if you experience severe or sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or collapse.
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