A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary artery, which supplies the blood to the lungs. It is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases .

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

Chest pain, a sharp, stabbing pain that might become worse when breathing in

Increased or irregular heartbeat

Dizziness

Difficulty catching breath, which may develop either suddenly or over time

Rapid breathing

A cough, normally dry but possibly with blood, or blood and mucus