Shortness of breath can be serious, do not ignore

by admin | May 20, 2020 7:54 am

What is Dyspnea (shortness of Breath)?

Oxygen is the life-source for all living beings and is supplied to the body through the process of breathing. Intense physical activity demands more oxygen, so it automatically accelerates breathing. That is why, it’s natural to feel a slight shortness of breath – called Dyspnea – when one is exercising intensely, walking quickly, running, jumping, carrying heavy weight, etc. Also, at high altitudes the air is thinner as levels of oxygen available  are lower, so activity at high altitudes can also cause shortness of breath. 

However, when none of the above conditions exist and one is experiencing shortness of breath, it is cause for concern. It is indicative of larger health issues, and should not be ignored. There are various physiological conditions that cause shortness of breath and it’s important to be aware of them. 

Causes of Shortness Breath

a) Breathing and Lungs related

Also Read: Difficulty in breathing – What it could mean and emergency response[1]

b) Heart-related


c) Environment related

Symptoms of Shortness Breath


When to see a doctor


Complications

If Dyspnea is not treated in time, it can cause 


Preventive Care


Diagnosis

To begin with, the physician will understand the sequence of, and triggers for, your shortness of breath.  He/she will also assess yours and your family’s medical history to rule out inherited conditions. Then he/she will conduct a series of tests:


Treatment for Shortness of Breath

The treatment varies according to the condition. After examination of the patient, the doctor will decide the right course of treatment.

This article is available in audio format, click “Play” button to listen.


Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.

Chennai – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801

Endnotes:
  1. Difficulty in breathing – What it could mean and emergency response: https://www.kauveryhospital.com/blog/k-way-health/difficulty-in-breathing-what-it-could-mean-and-emergency-response/
  2. Heart failure: https://www.kauveryhospital.com/blog/k-way-health/heart-failure-cause-symptoms-types-and-stages/
  3. Obesity: https://www.kauveryhospital.com/blog/k-way-health/diabetology-and-general-medicine/obesity-and-heart-disease/
  4. Radiation therapy: https://www.kauveryhospital.com/Centers-of-Excellence-and-Specialties/Radiation-Oncology
  5. Quit smoking: https://www.kauveryhospital.com/blog/good-living/smoking-is-injurious-to-health-myths-facts-and-risks/

Source URL: https://kauveryhospital.com/blog/pulmonology/shortness-of-breath-can-be-serious-do-not-ignore/