Labored breathing

Labored breathing is a medical condition characterized by an increased effort to breathe, often associated with discomfort or difficulty in the act of breathing. It is also known as Dyspnea or shortness of breath. Labored breathing can be a symptom of a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and anxiety disorders.

Causes

Labored breathing can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary edema
• Heart failure
• Anemia
• Lung cancer
• Pulmonary embolism
• Anxiety disorders

Symptoms

The main symptom of labored breathing is a feeling of difficulty or discomfort while breathing. Other symptoms can include:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Chest pain
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Sweating

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of labored breathing is typically made based on a patient's symptoms and medical history. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause, including:

• Chest X-ray
• Pulmonary function tests
• Blood tests
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Echocardiogram

Treatment

The treatment for labored breathing depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options can include:

• Medications to treat the underlying condition
• Oxygen therapy
• Breathing exercises
• Physical therapy
• Surgery in severe cases

See also

• Respiratory system
• Respiratory disease
• Pulmonology

Labored breathing Resources
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