3. Rapid Heart Rate: A Response to Respiratory Distress
When a pulmonary embolism occurs, the heart often responds with a rapid or irregular beat. This isn’t just a simple increase in heart rate; it’s the heart struggling to pump blood through blocked lung arteries. This rapid heart rate, medically known as tachycardia, can be alarming and uncomfortable.
The sensation of a racing heart, especially in the absence of physical exertion, should not be ignored. It’s important to recognize when your heart rate is not just fast, but irregular. This can feel like your heart is fluttering or pounding, a sign that it’s working harder to compensate for the reduced lung function.
When considering whether a rapid heart rate is a symptom of PE, it’s crucial to look at the broader context. If this symptom is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or any of the other symptoms listed, it increases the likelihood of pulmonary embolism.
If you experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat, especially in conjunction with other PE symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. This symptom can also be indicative of other serious conditions, making prompt evaluation essential. (3)
