Shortness of breath: a quick explanation

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a sensation of difficulty or discomfort in breathing, often described as feeling breathless, tight-chested, or unable to get enough air. Revered consultant cardiologist Dr Marco Spartera explains the causes, when to seek medical attention, and what lifestyle changes can help to manage the condition.

What is shortness of breath, and what does it feel like?

Shortness of breath is a subjective sensation of uncomfortable breathing. Patients usually describe it as 'struggling' to let enough air into your lungs, or to catch their breath. In these cases, breathing may feel challenging and difficult. In medicine, we label these symptoms as dyspnoea (from the ancient Greek from 'dyspnoos' which means 'disordered breathing').

What are the common causes of shortness of breath?

The most common causes of shortness of breath include heart failure, valve disease and cardiac arrhythmias. These conditions cause lungs to fill up with fluids hence the breathlessness. There are also other non-cardiac causes of breathlessness such as respiratory disease and blood disorders.

What diagnostic tests might be recommended for shortness of breath?

The cardiologist uses a wide array of tests to detect the causes of shortness of breath including ECG and imaging modalities (usually echocardiography and cardiac MRI).

Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage shortness of breath?

It is recommended to follow the following guidelines in order to manage shortness of breath:

• Regular exercise.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Quitting smoking.
• Avoiding allergens and pollutants.
• Practicing breathing exercises.
• Staying hydrated.
• Managing stress.
• Maintaining good posture can help manage shortness of breath.

Consulting a healthcare provider for personalised advice is also important.

When should I seek medical attention for shortness of breath?

It is crucial to see a doctor for shortness of breath if it occurs suddenly, is severe, or worsens over time. Immediate care is needed if accompanied by chest pain, fainting, confusion, or blue lips.

Persistent or unexplained shortness of breath, especially if it interferes with daily activities, warrants a doctor's visit. It may indicate serious conditions like heart disease, asthma, or infections that require prompt management. Always consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

If you are concerned about shortness of breath and would like to book a consultation with Dr Spartera, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.