Shortness of Breath - Causes, Conditions & When to See a Doctor
Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is a feeling of not being able to get enough air, or difficulty breathing. It can be caused by various heart, lung, or other conditions.
Overview
Shortness of breath can occur during physical activity, at rest, or even during sleep. While it is normal during intense exercise, unexplained or sudden shortness of breath may indicate a medical emergency.
Conditions That Cause Shortness of Breath
Shortness of Breath can be associated with several medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is important for proper treatment.
Asthma
Common causeAsthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulty, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.
Coronary Artery Disease
Common causeCoronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, caused by plaque buildup in the walls of arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Pneumonia
Common causePneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
Obesity
Obesity is a complex chronic disease characterized by excessive body fat accumulation that impairs health and increases the risk of numerous medical conditions.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues, causing fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
Hypertension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a common condition where the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive, persistent worry and fear that interferes with daily activities.
When to See a Doctor for Shortness of Breath
Seek emergency care for sudden, severe shortness of breath, especially with chest pain, fainting, or nausea. See a doctor if you experience shortness of breath with minimal activity, while lying down, or if it has been progressively worsening.
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Related Symptoms
People experiencing shortness of breath may also notice these symptoms:
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.