What is a common symptom of a pulmonary embolism (PE)?

A common symptom of a pulmonary embolism (PE) is the sudden onset of dyspnea (shortness of breath) and chest pain. This occurs because a PE involves a blockage in one or more of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually due to a blood clot that has traveled from the legs or other parts of the body. The obstruction disrupts normal blood flow, which can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels and result in acute respiratory difficulty.

Chest pain associated with a PE is often sharp or stabbing, and it may worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or movement. This intense and sudden symptom presentation is critical for timely diagnosis and intervention, as a PE can be life-threatening. Understanding the connection between these symptoms and the underlying pathophysiology of a pulmonary embolism is crucial for recognizing and appropriately responding to this medical emergency.

The other choices do not reflect typical symptoms of a PE; increased appetite, frequent urination, and chronic fatigue are not associated with this condition and can indicate different medical issues unrelated to the acute nature of a pulmonary embolism.