Which of the following is a common sign of pulmonary embolism?

Sudden shortness of breath is a key indicator of a pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and obstructs a pulmonary artery. This blockage prevents adequate blood flow and can trigger rapid onset of respiratory distress. The body’s immediate response to such an obstruction includes an increase in heart rate and changes in breathing patterns, which manifests as a feeling of sudden shortness of breath.

In contrast, the other options represent symptoms associated with different conditions. A chronic cough is often related to respiratory infections or chronic diseases affecting the lungs, but it is not a typical sign of pulmonary embolism. Fever can indicate an infectious process or inflammation, and while it may accompany a variety of medical conditions, it is not a diagnostic feature of pulmonary embolism. Joint pain could be related to conditions such as arthritis or injury but does not correlate with pulmonary embolism symptoms. Understanding the distinctive features of these symptoms helps in recognizing life-threatening conditions like pulmonary embolism promptly.