Which symptom indicates the presence of a pulmonary embolism?

Chest pain is a primary symptom that indicates the presence of a pulmonary embolism (PE). When a blood clot travels to the lungs and obstructs a pulmonary artery, it can lead to significant discomfort and pain in the chest, often described as sharp or stabbing. This pain may worsen with deep breaths and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, or coughing up blood. The acute onset and severity of chest pain in the context of possible risk factors or recent surgeries can strongly suggest the occurrence of a pulmonary embolism.

In contrast, ascites, jaundice, and urticaria are not typically associated with pulmonary embolism. Ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is usually related to liver disease, heart failure, or other conditions affecting fluid balance rather than a pulmonary event. Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicates liver dysfunction and is unrelated to the lungs. Urticaria, or hives, is an allergic reaction that manifests as skin welts and is not indicative of a pulmonary condition. Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the critical symptoms of respiratory emergencies like pulmonary embolism.