What are the common symptoms of a pulmonary embolism? 

A pulmonary embolism is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot becomes lodged in an artery in the lung, blocking blood flow to part of the organ. Recognising the symptoms early is vital for receiving prompt medical treatment, as these blockages can significantly impact heart and lung function. This guide provides a clear overview of the physical signs associated with the condition and the steps you should take if you suspect a pulmonary embolism is occurring. 

What We’ll Discuss in This Article 

• The primary physical sensations of a pulmonary embolism. 

• How breathing and heart rate are affected by lung clots. 

• Associated symptoms like coughing and lightheadedness. 

• The link between deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. 

• When and how to seek immediate emergency medical help in the UK. 

• Frequently asked questions regarding pulmonary embolism symptoms. 

Shortness of breath is the most common symptom of a pulmonary embolism 

Sudden or worsening shortness of breath, known medically as dyspnea, is the hallmark sign that a blood clot may be obstructing blood flow within the lungs. This sensation often appears abruptly and tends to worsen with any form of physical exertion, making it difficult for the person to catch their breath even while resting. 

In addition to the feeling of breathlessness, individuals may notice that their breathing becomes rapid and shallow. This occurs because the body is attempting to compensate for the reduced oxygen levels caused by the blockage in the pulmonary arteries. NHS guidance confirms that sudden breathlessness is a key indicator that requires urgent medical assessment. 

Chest pain associated with pulmonary embolism often worsens when breathing in 

Chest pain caused by a pulmonary embolism typically feels sharp or stabbing and is frequently described as pleuritic pain, meaning it becomes more intense when taking a deep breath, coughing, or sneezing. This pain is usually located in the area of the chest where the clot has lodged and does not typically go away with rest. 

Unlike the dull pressure or squeezing sensation often associated with a heart attack, pulmonary embolism pain is usually linked directly to the mechanics of breathing. Because the lung lining becomes irritated due to a lack of blood flow, any movement of the chest wall can trigger a sharp, uncomfortable sensation that may limit the depth of the breaths a person can take. 

Rapid heart rate and palpitations are frequent signs of a lung clot 

An abnormally fast heartbeat, or tachycardia, is a common physiological response to a pulmonary embolism as the heart works harder to pump blood through the obstructed vessels. You may feel as though your heart is racing, thumping, or skipping a beat, which can be accompanied by a general sense of anxiety or restlessness. 

This increased heart rate is a compensatory mechanism used by the cardiovascular system to maintain blood pressure and oxygen delivery to the rest of the body. If the blockage is large, the heart may struggle to overcome the resistance in the lungs, leading to further strain on the right side of the heart muscle. 

Coughing and lightheadedness can accompany a pulmonary embolism 

A persistent cough is another symptom that may develop, and in some cases, the person may cough up small amounts of blood or blood-streaked mucus, a condition known as haemoptysis. While not present in every case, coughing up blood is a significant sign that suggests the lung tissue is being affected by the lack of circulation. 

Feeling faint, dizzy, or actually losing consciousness (syncope) can also occur if the pulmonary embolism is large enough to cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. These symptoms indicate that the heart is unable to provide enough oxygenated blood to the brain and represent a critical stage of the condition. 

Recognising the connection between DVT and pulmonary embolism 

Many pulmonary embolisms start as a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg, a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you experience pulmonary symptoms alongside leg issues, the likelihood of an embolism is increased. 

Feature	Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)	Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Primary Location	Usually one leg or arm.	The lungs and chest area.
Common Signs	Swelling, pain, and redness in the limb.	Shortness of breath and chest pain.
Skin Changes	Skin may feel warm to the touch.	Skin may appear pale or bluish (cyanosis).
Immediate Risk	Clot breaking loose and travelling.	Life-threatening blockage of lung arteries.

NICE clinical guidelines state that a pulmonary embolism should be suspected in patients presenting with these chest symptoms, especially if they have risk factors for DVT. 

Conclusion 

A pulmonary embolism is characterized by sudden breathlessness, sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, and a rapid heart rate. Some individuals may also experience coughing with blood or feelings of lightheadedness, often following symptoms of a blood clot in the leg. Recognising these signs and understanding their urgency is the most important step in ensuring a safe outcome. 

If you experience severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, call 999 immediately. 

Authority Snapshot (E-E-A-T Block) 

This article was written to provide the public with clear, factual information on identifying the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism based on current UK medical standards. It has been reviewed by Dr. Stefan Petrov, a UK-trained physician with extensive experience in emergency care and general medicine, to ensure clinical accuracy. All information provided aligns strictly with the latest guidance from the NHS and NICE regarding the management of venous thromboembolism.