DYSPNEA (SHORTNESS OF BREATH)

What Causes Dyspnea?

Dyspnea (shortness of breath) can be caused by:

• Diseases of the heart​:

  • ​Coronary artery disease

  • Valvular disease

  • Congestive heart failure

  • Pericardial disease

  • Arrhythmia

• Disease of the lungs​:

  • Asthma

  • Emphysema

  • Fibrosis

  • Cancer

  • Infection

  • Pulmonary hypertension

  • Pulmonary embolism 

• Systemic disorders​:

  • Blood

  • Bone marrow

  • Thyroid

  • Immune system

• Deconditioning

What are the Signs/Symptoms of Dyspnea?

Shortness of breath includes difficulty breathing at rest, with activity, while trying to lie flat, and/or waking up short of breath; symptoms can be gradual or sudden in onset.

How is Dyspnea Diagnosed?

Testing for dyspnea includes:

• Blood tests

• Oxygen saturation measurement

• Chest x-ray

• CT scan

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Stress testing

• Echocardiogram

• Pulmonary function test

• Cardiac catheterization

What are the Treatments for Dyspnea?

Treatment for shortness of breath depends on managing the underlying cause which may including medication, procedures, diet/lifestyle modification, exercise, and sometimes oxygen.