Shortness of breath is a symptom whose cause may go undiagnosed because it may not be considered a sign of a serious disease. It may be dismissed as just being out of shape or getting older. Breathlessness is not a normal part of aging, and the cause of chronic shortness of breath should always be investigated. As with many conditions, seeking treatment in the early stages can help to prevent complications. There are a variety of tests a doctor can do to determine the cause of this symptom.
COPD
COPD, which stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a general term used to describe many lung conditions that affect the ability to breathe normally. This includes asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. All of these conditions can cause irritation and inflammation in the airways, which can restrict the ability to breathe in deeply or fully empty the lungs. The Family Doctor website states that with COPD, shortness of breath may be accompanied by a chronic cough, fever and fatigue.
Heart Disease
If the heart muscle or circulatory system is unable to deliver adequate amounts of blood and the oxygen it carries to the body, breathing may become difficult, claims the National Institutes of Health. This can include heart failure, arrhythmias, or irregular heart rhythms, problems within the valves of the heart or blocked arteries.
Shortness of breath is a signal that the brain, heart and tissues in the body are not getting enough oxygen. This symptom can also become chronic after a heart attack or stroke. Some forms of heart disease cause shortness of breath upon exertion, while others cause this symptom while lying down.
Obesity
Carrying extra weight places a strain on the heart and lungs, which can lead to a variety of chronic breathing problems. Shortness of breath can occur even with light exertion, or it can occur at night and cause snoring and sleep apnea. According to MayoClinic.com, even modest weight loss can help to improve all of the symptoms associated with being overweight, including trouble breathing.
Panic/Anxiety Attacks
A panic attack is a sudden and overwhelming sense of terror or doom that can occur with no warning signs or known cause. It can bring on a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath and a sensation of being smothered, claims the American Psychological Association. Panic attacks usually do not last long, and they are rarely dangerous. However, some patients feel as if they are choking or having a heart attack. There are a variety of treatment options available to manage this condition.
Pleurisy
Pleurisy, which is a chronic inflammation of the lungs, can cause chest pain and shortness of breath. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute warns that deep-breathing usually makes the pain worse. In addition, the chest may feel tight and the skin can turn a blueish color if oxygen levels drop too low. Viral and bacterial infections, autoimmune diseases, chest injuries and cancer are some of the conditions that can cause pleurisy.
