Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is characterized by the obstruction of a pulmonary artery, usually due to a blood clot that has traveled from the deep veins of the legs or other parts of the body. The symptoms of PE typically include a range of respiratory and cardiovascular manifestations.

Among the options provided, abdominal pain is generally not associated with PE. Patients experiencing a pulmonary embolism may present with bloody sputum, which can occur due to infarction of lung tissue or irritation of the bronchial tree. An increased heart rate is also a common response to hypoxemia or decreased cardiac output resulting from the embolus. Tachycardia, which is a sustained increase in heart rate, is likewise a prominent symptom as the body attempts to compensate for decreased oxygen levels and maintain adequate circulation.

Recognizing that abdominal pain is not a direct manifestation of PE is crucial for proper diagnosis and differentiation from other conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues or musculoskeletal pain, which might present with abdominal symptoms. Understanding the classic symptoms leads to more focused clinical assessment and intervention in suspected PE cases.