Shortness of Breath: Causes & When to See a Doctor
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Shortness of breath is the feeling of not getting enough air or having to work harder to breathe. It may occur after exertion or due to anxiety, and can be linked to lung or heart conditions. Sudden or severe shortness of breath may be an emergency requiring immediate evaluation.
What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath means difficult or uncomfortable breathing. It may feel like needing more air or being unable to take a satisfying breath. It can occur after exertion, but may also relate to lung or heart problems, allergies or airway obstruction. The feeling alone cannot establish anxiety as its cause.
Possible causes include asthma, pneumonia and chronic lung disease; treatment depends on the cause. New or recurring breathlessness needs medical assessment. Sudden or severe difficulty, especially with chest pain or loss of consciousness, requires emergency care rather than a routine appointment.
Possible causes
- Physical exertion or poor fitness level.
- Anxiety and stress episodes.
- Respiratory conditions such as asthma or chest infection.
- Allergies or exposure to air irritants.
- Heart conditions in some cases.
These are general causes; determining the precise cause requires medical evaluation.
When to see a doctor
Consult your doctor if:
- Shortness of breath recurs with minimal exertion or at rest.
- It is accompanied by chronic cough or wheezing in the chest.
Seek emergency care immediately if you experience sudden and severe shortness of breath, chest pain, bluish lips, difficulty speaking due to gasping, or fainting.
This content is for general educational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a specialist doctor, and is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.
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