What Is Pulmonary Embolism, The Medical Condition That Killed Avicii’s Ex-Girlfriend Emily Goldberg?

Emily Goldberg, former girlfriend of late EDM DJ Avicii, died on April 3, 2024. (File)

Emily Goldberg, former girlfriend of late EDM DJ Avicii, died on April 3, 2024, in La Jolla, California, roughly a year after she announced her recovery from cancer. Ms Goldberg was battling cancer throughout most of 2022 and 2023, according to her final Instagram post from May last year. Her obituary confirms the cause of death as a pulmonary embolism.

The 34-year-old is survived by her parents, Julie and Sam Goldberg, and brother Aaron Goldberg.

What is pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot reaches the lungs and blocks one or more arteries, disrupting blood flow, according to the Mayo Clinic. Typically, these clots originate in deep veins in the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). 

This condition is life-threatening as it restricts the functioning of the lungs. However, timely treatment can significantly reduce the risk of death. Moving around regularly and keeping active can help prevent blood clots and pulmonary embolisms. It is also important to avoid sitting or standing still for too long to maintain good circulation. 

Pulmonary embolism: Causes

Some causes as per the Mayo Clinic are – 

1. Fat released from a broken long bone
2. Fragments of a tumour
3. Air bubbles

Pulmonary embolism: Symptoms

Symptoms can vary, depending on factors like the size of the blood clot and existing health conditions. Some common symptoms are –

1. Sudden shortness of breath, even while resting
2. Sharp chest pains, especially when breathing deeply, coughing or bending
3. Fainting due to a sudden drop in heart rate or blood pressure
4. Coughing up blood
5. Rapid or irregular heartbeat
6. Dizziness
7. Excessive sweating
8. Fever
9. Pain or swelling in the legs, often in the lower back of the leg
10. Skin that feels clammy or looks discoloured (cyanosis)