By Medicover Hospitals / 20 Feb 2022
Shortness of Breath: Overview
Shortness of breath is a symptom, indicating difficulty in breathing or a feeling of breathlessness. It can be a manifestation of various underlying conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or lung disorders.
When you've overexerted yourself, it's natural to become out of breath, but when it happens abruptly and unexpectedly, it's typically an indication of a medical problem. The majority of cases of shortness of breath are caused by heart or respiratory issues. The heart and lungs are essential in carrying oxygen to the tissues and removing carbon dioxide.
What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath, also known as Dyspnea, is an uncomfortable condition that makes it difficult to get air into the lungs. It can be a sign of various health problems. Breathing disorders can be caused by heart and lung problems. Some people may have short bursts of shortness of breath. Others may have it for a more extended period of time.
Shortness of breath arises when the body's ability to breathe does not correspond to the brain's breathing commands. Usually, the airway, lungs, breathing muscles. heart, and blood vessels work together with the brain to maintain sufficient oxygen levels in the body.
Causes of Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath can be caused by a wide range of medical conditions. These organs are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, which is essential for healthy breathing. Breathlessness can be severe or chronic, lasting more than three to six months.
Conditions that may cause chronic and acute shortness of breath include:
Asthma
Narrow airways caused by Asthma can make breathing difficult.
Heart Failure
It occurs when blood cannot appropriately fill and drain the heart. This illness can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, making breathing difficult.
Lung Disease
Shortness of breath is caused by diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but tumours can also cause it.
Obesity
During an allergic reaction, people often experience shortness of breath.
Anxiety
It can lead to hyperventilation (rapid, heavy breathing).
Choking
A blockage in the throat can make it difficult for air to flow into and out of the lungs, resulting in choking.
Pulmonary embolism
It occurs when a blood clot forms in the lungs. This is a life-threatening situation.
Symptoms of Shortness of breath
When a person has shortness of breath, they might feel:
- Breathlessness
- Tightness in the chest
- Unable to breathe deeply
- Suffocation
Shortness of breath can be either acute or chronic. Acute dyspnea can develop in a matter of minutes or hours. It can occur in conjunction with other symptoms such as fever, rash, or cough. When you have chronic dyspnea, everyday things like walking from room to room or standing up can make you feel restless.
When to visit a Doctor?
If you have regular shortness of breath and are awakened at night by shortness of breath or have wheezing or tightness in the throat, consult a doctor for an assessment.
Shortness of breath might be a sign of a medical emergency that necessitates rapid medical attention. If you still have trouble breathing after 30 minutes of rest, go to the hospital. Also, get emergency support if you have:
- Blue fingers or lips.
- Chest pain or heaviness
- Heart palpitations
- High fever
- Stridor
- Swollen ankles or feet
Breathlessness can be caused by a variety of reasons, and the treatment for it will vary depending on the underlying cause. If the condition persists or if you have other symptoms, consider contacting a doctor. They can assist you in finding relief and may recommend treatment for an underlying health problem.
Diagnosis of Shortness of breath
The doctor may perform one or more of the following diagnostic tests to determine why you are having shortness of breath:
- Blood Tests: Arterial blood gases and blood oxygen saturation will be measured.
- Exercise Tests: Blood pressure, heart rate, and changes in breathing rate will be measured during the exercise.
- Electrocardiogram: ECG and EKG record the electrical activity of the heart.
- Echocardiogram: Ultrasound waves are used to create a moving image of the heart and heart valves in an "echo."
Treatment of Shortness of breath
The doctor will assist you in managing shortness of breath by identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the breathing problems. The treatment may include one or more of the following, depending on the underlying condition:
Prevention of Shortness of breath
Follow the steps to prevent shortness of breath:
- Inhaling chemicals that can irritate the lungs, such as paint fumes and car exhaust, should be avoided.
- To increase breathing function, practise breathing or relaxation techniques.
- Quit smoking
- Maintain healthy weight
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common cause of shortness of breath?
The most common causes of shortness of breath are asthma, heart failure, COPD, interstitial lung disease and pneumonia.
2. How do you know if shortness of breath is serious?
Seek for emergency medical care if the shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain, fainting, nausea and change in mental alertness.
3. Can you be short of breath but oxygen level normal?
Even though oxygen levels are within normal limits, a person may experience shortness of breath. It's vital to remember that dyspnea does not cause suffocation or death. However, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, contact the healthcare provider immediately.
4. What tests should be done for shortness of breath?
Commonly the tests include blood tests, imaging tests such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, lung function tests or an echocardiogram.
5. Does anxiety cause shortness of breath?
Yes, anxiety can cause shortness of breath due to hyperventilation or increased physiological arousal, often leading to a sensation of breathlessness. It's essential to manage anxiety effectively to alleviate symptoms and improve respiratory function.
6. Can stress cause shortness of breath?
Yes, stress can cause shortness of breath by triggering hyperventilation or increasing tension in the chest muscles, leading to difficulty breathing. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and stress-reducing activities can help alleviate symptoms of shortness of breath.
7. What causes shortness of breath with normal oxygen levels?
Shortness of breath with normal oxygen levels can be caused by conditions such as anxiety, hyperventilation syndrome, or respiratory muscle weakness. These conditions affect breathing patterns and perception of breathlessness despite adequate oxygen levels.
8. Does acid reflux cause shortness of breath?
Yes, acid reflux can cause shortness of breath when stomach acid irritates the airways, triggering a reflex to close off the windpipe to protect the lungs, leading to a sensation of breathlessness. Seeking treatment for acid reflux can help alleviate associated symptoms like shortness of breath.
