Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, is distressing and has many possible causes. Diseases of the lung, such as asthma, respiratory infections, cancer and pneumonia, are not the only cause. Disorders of other body systems, such as heart disease, anemia, obesity or panic attacks, can also cause difficulty breathing. Dyspnea requires a physician evaluation to rule out a serious cause.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a serious type of lung disease that includes the disorders emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD usually becomes worse with time. It causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, and a cough that produces a large amount of mucus. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of COPD. Most sufferers are former or current smokers, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Other causes include air pollution, chemical fumes and other irritating substances. COPD increases mucus production, destroys the lung's air sacs and decreases elasticity of the lung tissue. There is no cure. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms. The most important treatment for COPD is to quit smoking.
Panic Attacks
A panic attack causes a sudden and overpowering feeling of fear and extreme anxiety. A pounding heart, dizziness, sweating, and difficulty breathing can be accompanied by a feeling of dread. Sufferers may believe they are dying or losing control, says HelpGuide.org. Panic attacks often occur without warning, and possibly without any clear reason. They occur more often in those with depression and social phobia. Sufferers can develop agoraphobia, or fear that creates an inability to leave the home. Cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, tranquilizers and antidepressants are methods used to treat panic disorder.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a disorder that causes weakness of the heart muscle, reducing the amount of blood the heart can pump to the body. A past heart attack, clogged arteries, high blood pressure and diseased heart valves can cause it, explains the American Heart Association. CHF causes fatigue and difficulty breathing during exertion or when lying flat. As blood flow out of the heart decreases, blood flow back to the heart backs up, causing swelling in the ankles and legs and fluid in the lungs. Drugs that increase the pumping action of the heart, ease blood flow and eliminate excess fluid treat the symptoms of CHF. The underlying cause should be treated or corrected. A heart transplant may be necessary in cases of severe heart damage.
