Concerns About Pulmonary Embolism
Hello everyone! (Female, 26 years old, 167 cm tall, 62 kg weight; not on any medication, a bit anemic) I just returned from spending a night in the ER. I sought medical attention due to extreme fatigue, difficulty breathing, and discomfort in my leg, following two months of a mild fever (37.5°C), attributed to mononucleosis. The medical team conducted several examinations to rule out a thrombosis linked to pulmonary embolism. They started with a color Doppler ultrasound, followed by a D-dimer test. The results from the D-dimer showed a slight increase, which prompted them to perform a CT scan with contrast. Thankfully, the CT scan did not indicate any issues, and I was discharged. However, my symptoms continue to trouble me. Should I remain calm? I can’t shake off the concern regarding the elevated D-dimer levels, especially since they weren't detailed in my medical report. Could the CT scan have missed something? Is it worth seeking a second opinion?
Answers (1)
3/2/2026, 12:20:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling concerned given your recent symptoms and the elevated D-dimer levels. However, the reassuring news is that the CT scan did not show any evidence of a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a significant indicator that you're likely safe from that issue.
Here's a breakdown of your situation:
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D-Dimer Levels: Elevated D-dimer levels can indicate increased clot activity in the body, but they are not specific to pulmonary embolism. Many factors, including recent surgery, inflammation, or infections, can elevate these levels. In your case, the mild fever from mononucleosis may have contributed.
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CT Scan Findings: Since the CT scan didn’t show any clots or other serious issues, it is unlikely that something has been missed. CT scans are highly effective in detecting PE.
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Continuing Symptoms: Persistent fatigue and difficulty breathing can be related to several factors, including the aftereffects of mononucleosis or even anxiety related to your health concerns.
Next Steps for You:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms over the next few days. If they worsen, or if you develop new symptoms (like sharp chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, or swelling in your leg), take action immediately.
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Hydration and Rest: Focus on staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest. This is crucial for recovery, especially post-viral infections like mononucleosis.
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Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms persist or become bothersome, it may be worthwhile to discuss with your healthcare provider about further evaluations or treatment options related to your continued fatigue and breathing difficulties.
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Mental Well-Being: Finally, consider managing potential anxiety about your health. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness may help ease your worries.
It's perfectly reasonable to seek a second opinion, especially if you have lingering concerns, but ensure your primary care physician is well-informed of your symptoms and health history before doing so. Remember, you're not alone in this process, and it's okay to seek clarity and support as needed. Let me know if you need more specific advice!
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