Which symptom is commonly seen with pulmonary embolism that relates to respiration?

Which symptom is commonly seen with pulmonary embolism that relates to respiration?

• A. Shortness of breath
• B. Chest pain
• C. Fever
• D. Nasal congestion

Answer: (A)

Shortness of breath is the respiration-related symptom most commonly seen with a pulmonary embolism because the blockage in the pulmonary arteries disrupts gas exchange. This causes ventilation-perfusion mismatch and reduced oxygenation (hypoxemia). In response, the body increases the drive to breathe, leading to rapid, shallow breathing and a subjective sense of breathlessness. While chest pain can occur, especially if the PE irritates the pleura, fever and nasal congestion are not typical features of PE. So, dyspnea best captures how this condition affects breathing.

Shortness of breath is the respiration-related symptom most commonly seen with a pulmonary embolism because the blockage in the pulmonary arteries disrupts gas exchange. This causes ventilation-perfusion mismatch and reduced oxygenation (hypoxemia). In response, the body increases the drive to breathe, leading to rapid, shallow breathing and a subjective sense of breathlessness. While chest pain can occur, especially if the PE irritates the pleura, fever and nasal congestion are not typical features of PE. So, dyspnea best captures how this condition affects breathing.