Shortness of breath
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Shortness of breath, medically referred to as dyspnea, is a sensation of not being able to get enough air. It can be a symptom of a variety of health conditions, ranging from mild temporary conditions to serious chronic diseases.
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Causes[edit | edit source]
Shortness of breath can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular conditions: These include heart failure, coronary artery disease, and cardiac arrhythmias.
- Respiratory conditions: Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and lung cancer can lead to shortness of breath.
- Anemia: This condition, characterized by low red blood cell count, can result in inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, causing dyspnea.
- Anxiety disorders: Shortness of breath can also be a symptom of anxiety or panic disorders.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight can put extra strain on the respiratory system, leading to shortness of breath.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, a review of medical history, and various tests to determine the underlying cause. These tests may include:
- Chest X-ray or CT scan: These imaging tests can provide information about the heart and lungs.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect heart conditions that may be causing shortness of breath.
- Pulmonary function tests: These tests measure how well the lungs are working.
- Blood tests: These can help identify conditions such as anemia or infections.
- Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart, and can detect problems with heart function and structure.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the shortness of breath. It may include medications, lifestyle changes, or in more severe cases, surgery.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
