Signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the artery that transports blood to the lungs) include chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing.
It can be difficult to recognise the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism because they can vary between individuals.
The following symptoms may occur in the order they are listed:
- chest pain – a sharp, stabbing pain that may be worse when breathing in
- shortness of breath – which may come on suddenly or develop gradually
- anxiety
- coughing – which is usually dry, but may include coughing up blood or mucus that contains blood
- sweating
- feeling light-headed or dizzy
- passing out
You should visit your GP as soon as possible if you experience any combination of the above symptoms. If it is not possible for you to visit your GP, you can call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or you can contact your local out-of-hours service.
A pulmonary embolism may be suspected if you have the above symptoms and you have recently had pain in your arm or leg, or if you have any of the associated risk factors.
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