Symptoms of a pulminary embolism?

Hi. Can someone please tell me what the signs or symptoms of a pulminary embolism are? I am almost 6 days post-op and very scared that I will develop one because blood clots are very common in my family. I know the way to avoid them is to walk, but I really have no idea if I am walking enough. Nobody has given me a standard to go by and I don't want to over do it. So, if somebody could help me to understand roughly how much walking I should be doing I would really appreciate it! Thanks so much! -Amber

i hope this helps!Symptoms Pulmonary embolism usually occurs suddenly, causing the onset of new symptoms. The most common signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism are: Unexplained shortness of breath Chest pain that gets worse with a deep breath, coughing, or chest movement Coughing up blood. Sometimes, small pulmonary emboli can occur over time. These emboli may cause a more gradual onset of symptoms. Other Signs and Symptoms General, less-specific signs and symptoms may occur, including: Anxiety or feelings of dread Lightheadedness Fainting Rapid breathing Increased heart rate Sweating. Signs and Symptoms of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) Some people with pulmonary embolism only have signs and symptoms of DVT. These include: Swelling of the leg or swelling along the vein in the leg. Pain or tenderness in the leg. The pain is usually only in one leg. You might only have pain when standing or walking. Feeling of increased warmth in the area of the leg that is swollen or that hurts. Red or discolored skin on the affected leg. Signs and symptoms of pulmonary emboli vary depending on the amount of blood flow blocked in the lung by clots. Large clots or many clots are life threatening and cause more severe symptoms. Smaller clots cause fewer symptoms or no symptoms at all. It is important that you see your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of pulmonary embolism or DVT. Who Is At Risk Diagnosis Email this Page to a Friend Email all Sections to a Friend Print all Sections of this Topic

Hi I found this information most informative. I will be catching a bus from Va to Tn this Friday and it is about a 24 hr trip plus I will also be returning by bus. I am preop and wander if this trip will cause me to be at extra risks for blood clots. Is there anything extra, becides moving my feet around, wiggling my toes and walking around each time the bus stops? Is it better to were or not wear socks or stockings?Thanks for any replys Carolyn Faye

I foundsome more info for you.. How Is Pulmonary Embolism Prevented? Preventing pulmonary embolism begins with preventing DVT. It is important to know if you are at risk for DVT and to take steps to lower your risk. If you have never had a deep vein clot, but are in a situation that may increase your risk, be sure to: Exercise your lower leg muscles during long car trips and plane rides. Get out of bed and move around as soon as you are able after having surgery or being ill. The sooner you move around, the less chance you have of developing a clot. Take medications to prevent clots after some types of surgery as directed by your doctor. Follow up with your doctor. If you already have had DVT or a pulmonary embolism, you need to prevent further clots from developing by: Seeing your doctor for regular checkups Taking your medications to prevent or treat blood clots as prescribed by your doctor Using compression stockings as directed to prevent chronic swelling in your legs after a DVT, if prescribed by your doctor Contacting your doctor immediately if you have any signs or symptoms of DVT or pulmonary embolism. Treatments Living With

I had pulmonary emboli before and the most obvious symptom was EXTREME shortness of breath, particularly with any type of exertion (even just walking across a small room would get me very winded). I had sporadic chest pain and left jaw pain, and my heart was beating rapidly and I was having palpitations (I could feel my heart beating at times). I don't think it's something you wouldn't notice.

Thanks so much for your wonderful replies. I worry so much, at least now I know what to look for. I greatly appreciate it.