Thromboembolism history and symptoms
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
History
It is vital that the possibility of pulmonary embolism be included in the history, as this may warrant further investigation (see pulmonary embolism).
A careful history has to be taken considering risk factors of thromboembolism, including the use of estrogen-containing methods of hormonal contraception, recent long-haul flying, and a history of miscarriage (which is a feature of several disorders that can also cause thrombosis). A family history can reveal a hereditary factor in the development of DVT.
Symptoms
The symptoms and signs of thromboembolism may include:
- Tachypnea
- Dyspnea
- Chest pain
- Discomfort in the legs
- Pleuritic pain
- Apprehension and anxiety
- Cough
- Tachycardia
- Syncope
- Right heart failure
- Jugular venous distention
- Hepatomegaly
- Left parasternal heave
- Fixed splitting of the second heart sound
- Dilation of the surface veins
- Hemoptysis
- Fever
- Hyperemia in thrombosis, pallor in embolism
- Local swelling
- Local pain
- Tenderness
- Very low blood pressure
- Lightheadedness