Sophomore Michelle Browning was on track to compete in the NCAA Championships in the all-around April 22-24 in Gainesville, Fla., but has been forced to withdraw due to blood clots in her lungs.

Browning experienced increasing difficulty in her breathing Wednesday that progressed into pains in her torso. She went to the emergency room at around 11:30 p.m. and was admitted by 4:30 a.m. Thursday.

Coach Jay Ronayne said she is stable now and as comfortable as she can be in the hospital, but also said it was a big scare.

“Blood clots come from your leg and go through your heart,” Ronayne said. “Sometimes they stop your heart, so we’re lucky to still have her with us.”

The cause of the clots is still unknown. Ronayne said it could be hereditary or from a previous injury.

Browning will not compete in the NCAA Championships, but Ronayne said she should be able to continue gymnastics as long as her health is stable.