Which option is NOT a symptom of a pulmonary embolism?

Which option is NOT a symptom of a pulmonary embolism?

• A. Fever
• B. Tachypnea
• C. Tachycardia
• D. Diaphoresis

Answer: (A)

Pulmonary embolism typically presents with rapid breathing, a fast heart rate, and sweating because the sudden blockage in the pulmonary arteries causes hypoxemia and a sympathetic stress response. Fever is not a typical feature of PE; it’s more commonly seen with infection or inflammatory processes. While fever can occur if there’s an accompanying infection or a pulmonary infarct, it does not reflect the usual pattern of symptoms from PE itself. Therefore, fever is not a characteristic symptom of a pulmonary embolism, whereas tachypnea, tachycardia, and diaphoresis are.

Pulmonary embolism typically presents with rapid breathing, a fast heart rate, and sweating because the sudden blockage in the pulmonary arteries causes hypoxemia and a sympathetic stress response. Fever is not a typical feature of PE; it’s more commonly seen with infection or inflammatory processes. While fever can occur if there’s an accompanying infection or a pulmonary infarct, it does not reflect the usual pattern of symptoms from PE itself. Therefore, fever is not a characteristic symptom of a pulmonary embolism, whereas tachypnea, tachycardia, and diaphoresis are.