Pulmonary Embolism
A blockage in a lung artery, usually from a blood clot that travels from the legs, causing sudden chest pain and shortness of breath.
Also known as: PE, lung clot.
Category: Cardiovascular
Drugs labeled for Pulmonary Embolism
5 medication ingredients list an association with pulmonary embolism in current FDA labeling.
Symptoms associated with Pulmonary Embolism
The following symptoms have been associated with Pulmonary Embolism in medical literature. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms.
Chest pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) localize...
Dizziness
A feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or faintness, which can be caused by many conditions....
Hemoptysis
Coughing up (expectoration) of blood or blood-streaked sputum from the larynx, trachea, bronchi, or lungs....
Rapid Heart Rate
A resting heart rate above 100 beats per minute, which can be caused by fever, anxiety, dehydration, thyroid c...
Reduced consciousness
Abnormally diminished level of attention, responsiveness, or wakefulness....
Sudden Shortness of Breath
Breathlessness that comes on suddenly, which can be a sign of a blood clot in the lungs or other emergencies....
Tests used to investigate Pulmonary Embolism
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Pulmonary Embolism. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
BNP / NT-proBNP
Measures B-type natriuretic peptide to help evaluate heart failure....
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
D-Dimer
Helps rule out blood clotting conditions such as DVT or pulmonary embolism....
Conditions with overlapping symptoms
These conditions share symptoms with Pulmonary Embolism, which is why a clinical evaluation is important.
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When to seek emergency care
This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately for sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pulmonary Embolism?
Pulmonary Embolism is a health condition described in medical literature. A blockage in a lung artery, usually from a blood clot that travels from the legs, causing sudden chest pain and shortness of breath.
What are the symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism?
Pulmonary Embolism is associated with 6 symptoms in the medical literature we index, including Chest pain, Dizziness, Hemoptysis, Rapid Heart Rate, Reduced consciousness, Sudden Shortness of Breath. Symptoms vary widely between individuals.
How is Pulmonary Embolism diagnosed or investigated?
A healthcare provider may use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and tests. Common tests associated with Pulmonary Embolism include BNP / NT-proBNP, CBC with Differential, D-Dimer. This information is educational, not a diagnosis.
Is SymptomDatabase.com diagnosing me?
No. SymptomDatabase.com does not provide diagnosis. If you are concerned you may have Pulmonary Embolism, please discuss your symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.