Physical exam for pulmonary embolism

Signs during the physical exam that might lead your doctor to suspect pulmonary embolism include:

  • A rapid heart rate.
  • Bulging neck veins.
  • A distinctive heart murmur.
  • Fever.
  • A rubbing sound in the chest when breathing.
  • Rapid breathing.

Author: Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPHLast Updated: February 13, 2007
Medical Review: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Jeffrey S. Ginsberg, MD - Hematology

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