What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath, medically known as dyspnea, is the sensation of difficult or uncomfortable breathing. It can feel like you cannot get enough air into your lungs or that you're having to work harder to breathe.
Common Symptoms
- Feeling breathless at rest or during activity
- Tightness in the chest
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Increased effort to breathe
- Feeling of suffocation or air hunger
Common Causes
Immediate Causes:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Physical exertion
- High altitude
- Extreme temperatures
Medical Conditions:
-
Respiratory conditions:
- Asthma
- COPD
- Pneumonia
- COVID-19
-
Heart conditions:
- Heart failure
- Heart attack
- Irregular heartbeat
-
Other conditions:
- Anemia
- Obesity
- Allergic reactions
When to Seek Medical Care
Emergency Situations:
- Sudden severe breathlessness
- Chest pain
- Blue lips or fingers
- Inability to speak in full sentences
Schedule an Appointment If:
- Breathlessness is new or worsening
- It interferes with daily activities
- You have unexplained breathlessness
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Medications (inhalers, anti-anxiety drugs)
- Breathing exercises
- Lifestyle changes
- Treatment of underlying conditions
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Manage stress
- Practice good air quality control
Self-Care Tips
- Use pursed-lip breathing
- Practice relaxation techniques
- Pace your activities
- Keep a symptom diary
Always consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.