What are common signs of a developing pulmonary embolism?

A developing pulmonary embolism (PE) often presents with sudden and acute symptoms due to the blockage of a pulmonary artery, typically caused by blood clots that travel from the legs or other parts of the body. The key signs to look for include sudden onset of shortness of breath, which can vary in intensity and may become worse with exertion. Chest pain that is sharp and may worsen with deep breathing is also a classic symptom associated with PE. These symptoms occur suddenly and require immediate medical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and initiate treatment.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the typical presentation of a pulmonary embolism. Sudden onset of diarrhea does not relate to PE and suggests gastrointestinal issues. Chronic fatigue and drowsiness can result from various conditions but are not specific indicators of PE. Severe headache and dizziness can indicate other medical problems; while they can occasionally occur in PE, they are not defining symptoms and can lead to confusion regarding the diagnosis. Therefore, the sudden onset of shortness of breath and chest pain is the hallmark presentation of a developing pulmonary embolism.