Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism depend on the size of the obstruction. If a clot obstructs a large artery, gas exchange will be severely impaired and signs and symptoms of respiratory distress will be evident. Suspect pulmonary embolism in any person with a sudden onset of unexplained dyspnea and chest pain (typically sharp and localized to a specific area of the chest) and signs of hypoxia, but who has normal breath sounds and adequate volume. The following are signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism. However, it is important to note that the signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism are often nonspecific and non-diagnostic. • Sudden onset of unexplained dyspnea • Signs of difficulty in breathing or respiratory distress; rapid breathing • Sudden onset of sharp, stabbing chest pain • Cough (may cough up blood) • Tachypnea • Tachycardia • Syncope (fainting) • Cool, moist skin • Restlessness, anxiety, or sense of doom • Decrease in blood pressure or hypotension (late sign) • Cyanosis (may be severe) (late sign) • Distended neck veins (late sign) • Crackles • Fever • SpO2 <94% • Signs of complete circulatory collapse |
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