Cardiac Asthma: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kanchan M Bhambare , Cardiologist

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Cardiac asthma is not a type of traditional asthma, but rather a condition caused by heart problems, especially left-sided heart failure. It leads to breathing issues that feel a lot like asthma.

Since it affects your lungs and heart, identifying and treating it early can help avoid serious complications and improve your daily comfort.

What Are the Symptoms and Warning Signs of Cardiac Asthma?

Cardiac asthma can cause breathing troubles that seem like regular asthma but are triggered by heart issues. Recognizing the symptoms early is key to getting proper care.

Common Symptoms

• Shortness of breath, especially when lying down
• Persistent dry cough
• Wheezing or noisy breathing
• Feeling tired with little effort

Severe Symptoms

• Sudden difficulty breathing at night
• Chest discomfort
• Swelling in the feet or ankles
• Bluish lips or fingernails (lack of oxygen)

If you experience shortness of breath that worsens at night or doesn't improve with asthma medication, consult a heart specialist immediately.

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What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Cardiac Asthma?

Cardiac asthma is not caused by allergies or airway problems like regular asthma. It starts when the heart can't pump blood properly, which causes fluid to build up in the lungs.

This fluid makes it hard to breathe and creates symptoms that feel like asthma.

Here are the common causes:

• Left-sided heart failure is the most common reason behind cardiac asthma
• High blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart over time.
• Heart valve problems, like a leaky or narrowed valve
• Heart attack damage weakens the heart's pumping ability.
• Fluid overload occurs when the body retains more fluid than it should
• An irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) can cause the heart to function less effectively.

When the heart struggles, the lungs feel the pressure, leading to coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness.

Who Is Affected by Cardiac Asthma?

Cardiac asthma usually affects people who already have heart conditions or are at risk of heart disease. It's more common in older adults but can affect others, too.

People at higher risk include:

• Elderly individuals, especially over age 60
• People with a history of heart failure or heart attacks
• Those with uncontrolled high blood pressure
• People with heart valve issues
• Diabetics, due to their higher risk of heart problems
• Smokers and those with a sedentary lifestyle

If you fall into any of these groups and notice breathlessness at night or while lying down, Early care can make a big difference.

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What is the Difference Between Cardiac Asthma and Bronchial Asthma?

While both conditions present with wheezing and breathing difficulties, their underlying causes differ significantly:

• Cardiac Asthma: Caused by heart failure and pulmonary congestion. Treatment focuses on improving heart function and reducing fluid overload.
• Bronchial Asthma: An inflammatory condition of the airways, often triggered by allergens or environmental factors. Treatment involves bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications.

Distinguishing between the two is crucial for effective management and to avoid inappropriate treatments.

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How Is Cardiac Asthma Diagnosed?

Diagnosing cardiac asthma can be tricky because it often feels just like regular asthma. But the root cause is different, it's the heart, not the lungs. That's why doctors use a mix of tests to find out what's going on.

If you're having shortness of breath or wheezing, especially at night or when lying down, these tests help your doctor confirm whether the problem is heart-related.

Here are some standard tests your doctor might suggest:

• Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart to check for fluid sounds or irregular beats.
• Chest X-ray: Helps spot fluid in the lungs or an enlarged heart.
• ECG (Electrocardiogram): Checks your heart's rhythm and detects signs of heart strain.
• Echocardiogram (Heart ultrasound): Shows how well your heart is pumping and if valves are working properly.
• Blood tests: Measure specific markers that signal heart failure.
• Pulmonary function test: Rules out asthma or other lung problems.
• BNP test: A special blood test that helps tell if breathing problems are due to heart failure.
• Cardiac catheterization
• Cardiopulmonary stress test
• Cardiac CT

These tests together give a clear picture and help your doctor create the right treatment plan for you.

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What Are the Treatment Options for Cardiac Asthma?

Cardiac asthma is caused by problems in the heart, not the lungs. So, treatment focuses on improving heart function and easing the pressure on your lungs.

The primary goal is to help you breathe more easily and prevent fluid accumulation in your chest. With the right care, most people can manage the condition well and enjoy a better quality of life.

Doctors usually start by treating the heart condition that's causing the breathing problems. Your doctor will decide the best plan based on your health, test results, and how severe your symptoms are.

Treatment Options for Cardiac Asthma Include:

• Diuretics (water pills): Help remove extra fluid from the body and lungs.
• Heart medicines, such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors to support heart function.
• Low-salt diet: Helps reduce fluid buildup.
• Oxygen therapy is used for people with severe breathing difficulty.
• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, reducing stress, and regular gentle exercise.
• Treating underlying heart issues, Such as high blood pressure or valve problems.

Are There Any Side Effects of the Treatment of Cardiac Asthma?

Yes, like many treatments, managing cardiac asthma can have a few side effects. Most are mild and manageable with regular checkups.

Possible side effects may include:

• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded (from blood pressure medicines)
• Frequent urination (common with water pills)
• Tiredness or weakness
• Cough or dry throat
• Swelling in the legs (if fluid builds up again)
• Changes in heartbeat (rare, but needs attention)

If you notice any of these, talk to your doctor. Don't try your own health practices. Sometimes, it may lead to severe conditions.

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When to See a Doctor for Cardiac Asthma?

It can be challenging to determine when shortness of breath is simply due to tiredness or something more serious.

But when your heart struggles to pump properly, the signs shouldn't be ignored. If you feel like your breathing issues are getting worse, don't wait.

Here's when you should see a doctor:

• You feel short of breath even while lying down or resting.
• Your breathing suddenly gets worse at night, waking you up.
• You notice wheezing or a persistent dry cough.
• You feel chest pressure or discomfort with even light activity.
• Your ankles, legs, or stomach are swelling.
• You feel more tired than usual, even with enough rest.
• You have episodes of dizziness or feel lightheaded.
• You have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

These symptoms may feel like asthma, but they're often a sign of your heart needing attention.

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Recovery After Cardiac Asthma Treatment

Recovering from cardiac asthma means more than just feeling better, it's about taking care of your heart in the long run. With proper care, most people can get back to their normal activities.

Here's what recovery looks like:

• Regular follow-ups with your doctor are necessary to monitor heart function.
• Daily medications to reduce fluid buildup and support heart health.
• A low-salt diet to prevent fluid retention.
• Light exercise, such as walking, can help strengthen your heart, as advised by your doctor.
• Keeping track of your weight daily to spot fluid changes early.
• Avoiding stress and heavy exertion, which can worsen symptoms.
• Good sleep habits, as lying flat, may worsen breathing; sleeping with your head elevated helps.
• Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking, both of which strain the heart.
• Getting support, your recovery isn't something you have to face alone. Family, doctors, and nurses are there to help.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Cardiac Asthma?

Taking care of your heart can go a long way in preventing cardiac asthma. While you can't always avoid it completely, these simple lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk:

Prevention Tips

• Control your blood pressure: Keep it in check with regular monitoring and medications if needed.
• Manage heart conditions early: Don't ignore chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue.
• Eat heart-healthy foods: Choose more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and less salt.
• Exercise regularly:Gentle activities like walking or swimming can strengthen your heart.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: These can make heart problems worse.
• Watch your weight: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your heart.
• Take prescribed medications: Always follow your doctor's advice.

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What Are the Possible Complications of Cardiac Asthma?

If not appropriately treated, cardiac asthma can lead to serious issues. Here's what to look out for:

Complications

• Worsening heart failure
• Fluid buildup in the lungs
• Frequent hospital visits
• Reduced quality of life

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Our Experience Treating Cardiac Asthma

At Medicover, we understand how scary it can feel to have trouble breathing due to heart issues. But you're not alone, and this is a condition we manage every day.

• Don't panic, cardiac asthma is treatable, and you're not alone.
• We care for many patients with this condition every day.
• Our team listens, supports, and explains everything clearly and concisely.
• Experienced heart doctors and modern tools are here to help you.
• We'll guide you gently through every step, from diagnosis to recovery.
• With proper care, you can breathe more easily and feel stronger.

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