Do you get an unexplained sharp pain in your neck, chest, shoulder, or arm?
Do you get lower back pain from coughing or cough with bloody mucus?
Do you experience sudden shortness of breath whether you’ve been active or at rest?
You may be suffering from a pulmonary embolism.
Learn all about this condition – from its causes, pulmonary embolism symptoms back pain, and more.
What is a Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the lung that occurs when a clot in another part of the body (usually the leg or arm) moves through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in the blood vessels of the lung.
This limits blood flow to the lungs lowers oxygen levels in the lungs and increases blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
If a pulmonary embolism is not treated quickly, it can cause lung or heart damage and even death.
Pulmonary Embolism Symptoms
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary, depending on the severity of the clot.
Symptoms may include:
- Sudden shortness of breath (whether you’ve been active or at rest)
- Unexplained sharp pain in your neck, chest, shoulder, or arm (the pain may be similar to symptoms of a heart attack)
- Coughing (with or without blood)
- Pale, clammy, or bluish-colored skin
- Excessive sweating
- Wheezing
- Back pain
- In some cases, feeling anxious, light-headed, faint, or passing out
If you have any symptoms of pulmonary embolism, get medical attention immediately.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.All information contained on this website is for general information purposes only.
