Does pulmonary embolism cause shortness of breath?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot lodges in a lung artery. Blood flow through part of the lung is reduced, making breathing feel difficult and placing extra strain on the heart. Breathlessness may happen at rest or with activity, and can occur with sharp chest pain, a rapid pulse, cough, or feeling faint. Shortness of breath has many possible causes, so it does not by itself establish a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.

Get urgent medical assessment for unexplained new breathlessness, especially when it is sudden or worsening. Note when it began and whether you have recently been less mobile, had surgery, travelled for a long time, or noticed one-sided leg swelling or pain. Keep still enough to avoid overexertion while arranging help, but do not delay assessment to monitor symptoms at home. A clinician can check oxygen levels, heart rate, and decide which tests are appropriate.

Call emergency services immediately if shortness of breath is severe, comes with chest pain, coughing up blood, collapse, confusion, blue or grey lips, or a feeling that you may faint. Seek urgent care too if breathing becomes harder over a short period. Do not drive yourself when symptoms are intense or you feel unsteady.

Ask which causes are being considered, whether a clot needs to be ruled out, and what tests may answer that question. If treatment is started, ask how to take it safely, what bleeding symptoms to report, and when follow-up is needed.