Breathlessness : Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Breathlessness is difficulty breathing due to a lack of oxygen or shortness of breath. It can happen suddenly or gradually from factors like exercise, altitude, or a sedentary lifestyle. Seek medical attention for sudden breathlessness, as it could indicate a condition. Asthma is common in children and smokers and heart patients may struggle to breathe.


Causes of Breathlessness

What's causing my shortness of breath?

What's causing my shortness of breath?

Other causes may include

  • Smoking
  • Kidney Disease
  • Thyroid Disease
  • Weight Loss
  • Muscular Dystrophy

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Signs of Breathlessness

  • Difficulty while breathing
  • Noisy breathing
  • Increase in pulse rate
  • Chest Pain
  • Cold and pale skin
  • Taking the help of upper chest or muscles while breathing
  • Infection in Chest
  • Any heart problem

Diagnosis of Breathlessness

Your doctor will likely perform tests to help diagnose the cause of your shortness of breath. They can:

  • Do breathing and lung function tests
  • Check the number of breaths you take each minute, listen to your chest and watch and feel how your chest moves when you breathe
  • Check your heart rate and beating, and check if the liquid is building up in your ankles or lungs
  • Check your blood pressure and temperature
  • Check your height, weight, height, and body mass index
  • Examine your head, neck, and armpits to see if your lymph nodes are swollen
  • See your eyes, nails, skin, and joints
  • Check your blood oxygen level with a pulse oximeter

If your doctor suspects anxiety or depression, they may ask you to complete a short questionnaire or refer you for further testing like:

  • A chest x-ray
  • A spirometry test
  • An EKG or ECG- if your shortness of breath is intermittent, you may be required to wear a portable recorder for 24 hours or seven days to record your heart's electrical activity
  • An echocardiogram - this is a non-invasive ultrasound of your heart that can tell how well it is working
  • Blood tests to check for anemia, allergies, or problems with your thyroid, liver, kidney, or heart.

Breathlessness can be assessed by

  • Breathlessness on doing heavy exercise
  • Breathing problems while walking the slopes

Treatment of Breathlessness

Breathlessness Treatment will depend on the cause

  • Stop smoking encouraged :
    • Help improve health
  • Weight loss recommended if overweight :
    • Benefits overall health
  • Referral to specialist likely :
  • General Physician manages most cases :
    • Referral to hospital possible for further investigation and treatment

Evaluation of Breathlessness During a Doctor

Consultation:

  • Did it start recently or with a period of time?
  • Moderate or severe abdominal pain.
  • How much distance can you cover while walking?
  • Are you sick?
  • Do you Cough for a longer time?
  • Do you smoke?
Types Causes Symptoms
Asthma
  • Affects the Airways
  • Breathing Problem
  • Shortness of Breath
Pneumonia
  • Infection in Larger airways
  • Throat infection
  • Loss of appetite
Heart Disease
  • Swelling
  • Breathing Problem
  • Pale face
Pulmonary Embolism
  • Blockage of the Blood vessel in the lungs
Anxiety
  • Panic disorder
  • Dizziness
  • Stress disorders
  • Sickness
  • Sweating
  • Headaches
  • First breathing
Anemia
  • Low red blood cells
  • Low hemoglobin
  • Reduction of oxygen
  • Tiredness
  • Feeling Fainted
  • Breathless
  • Increase Heartbeat

When to seek a Doctor’s advice?

  • If there’s any medical emergency
  • Not getting enough oxygen
  • Having a high rate of chest pain

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Breathlessness Remedies

  • Pursed-lip breathing:
    • Controls shortness of breath
    • Deepens breathing, relaxes muscles
  • Sitting forward:
    • Resting elbows while bending forward in a chair
    • Relieves breathlessness
  • Standing with supporting arms:
    • Lean on a table for support
    • Eases breathlessness
  • Sleeping in relaxed position:
    • Use pillow under head, deep breaths to relax
  • Sit under a fan:
    • Relax body, take in fresh air
  • Drinking coffee: Provides freshness, relaxes muscles

Change in Lifestyles can cure the breathing problem:

  • Stop smoking
  • Avoid going to pollutants area
  • Lose weight
  • Stay healthy and eat well
  • For better treatment consult a Doctor
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes breathlessness?

This can be caused by various factors such as respiratory infections, asthma, heart conditions, or even anxiety. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

2. Can anxiety cause breathlessness?

Yes, anxiety can trigger hyperventilation, leading to breathlessness. Practicing relaxation techniques or seeking professional help can manage anxiety and alleviate breathlessness.

3. How can I improve my breathing efficiency?

Regular exercise, such as cardio and breathing exercises like pursed lip breathing, can strengthen respiratory muscles and improve lung capacity. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight also contribute to better breathing.

4. How can I manage breathlessness at home?

Practice relaxation techniques, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, ensure good indoor air quality, and follow any prescribed treatment plans.

5. How can I improve my lung capacity to reduce breathlessness?

Incorporating aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling into your routine can improve lung capacity over time. Breathing exercises, such as pursed lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, can also help strengthen respiratory muscles and improve breathing efficiency.

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