Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism occur in about 50 percent of all cases. When present, the most common symptoms are unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain that gets worse with a deep breath, and coughing up blood. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary depending on the amount of blood flow that is blocked in the lung by clots. Large blood clots are considered life-threatening and may cause more severe symptoms, while smaller blood clots cause fewer symptoms or no symptoms at all.

 

An Introduction to Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

More than half of the people with pulmonary embolism do not have any symptoms. And some people have symptoms that could be due to other conditions.
 

Common Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

When present, the most common symptoms of pulmonary embolism are:
 
  • Unexplained shortness of breath
  • Chest pain that gets worse with a deep breath, coughing, or chest movement
  • Coughing up blood.
 

Other Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

General, less-specific signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism may occur, including:
 
  • Anxiety or feelings of dread
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting
  • Rapid breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Sweating.
 

Severity of Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism vary depending on the amount of blood flow that is blocked in the lung by clots.
 Large blood clots or many blood clots are considered life-threatening and may cause more severe symptoms. Smaller blood clots cause fewer symptoms or no symptoms at all. It is important that you see your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis.
 
(Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD