Is Pain In Upper Back A Symptom Of Pulmonary Embolism?

Posted on Mon, 4 Aug 2014

Question: I am a 22 year old female who recently quit smoking and I am also on a combination pill low dose birth control. For about three weeks I have had a sharp pain in my upper back seemingly behind my shoulder blade. The pain is sometimes unbearable but i have been to both a chiropractor and a masseuse with no relief/no cause. I figured it was how I slept. Today I had some sharp chest pains while stressed that went away. Now my left arm feels tingly almost numb. I have read about Pulmonary Embolism due to smoking and birth control and wonder if this is urgent or it can wait until I can see my GP tomorrow.

Answered by Dr. Sudhir (38 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
This doesn't seem like pulmonary embolism.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

This doesn't seem like pulmonary embolism.Embolism would have presented with more severe symptoms like breathlessness, dizziness or early tiredness etc.

You can surely wait till tomorrow to see your GP.Meanwhile take rest and have someone to look over you till you see your doctor.

Hope this helps.Regards.

Note: For further follow-up it is advisable to consult an emergency medicine specialist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad