Trouble breathing, or dyspnea, is very distressing, and has many possible causes. It is often described as a feeling of suffocation or chest tightening, says the Mayo Clinic. Although high altitudes, extreme temperatures or strenuous exercise can cause trouble breathing, it is often caused by a problem in the heart or lungs.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a serious, progressive lung disease most commonly caused by smoking. Other causes include industrial toxins and dusts, air pollution and infections, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. The airways become inflamed, thickened and narrowed, and produce large amounts of yellow mucus. A moist, productive cough develops, which is often called "smoker's cough." Difficulty breathing occurs. Frequent respiratory infections are common. Treatment includes oxygen therapy and medications to reduce inflammation, mucus and infection. Patients often ignore the signs of chronic bronchitis, unaware that it can develop into emphysema, the American Lung Association says.
Anemia
Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Anemia is a disorder that causes a shortage of red blood cells, resulting in symptoms of fatigue, pale skin and shortness of breath, or trouble breathing, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Sufferers may complain of cold hands and feet, headaches, chest pain and dizziness. Shortness of breath occurs as the body tries to get the oxygen it needs by making the lungs work harder. Over time, the lack of oxygen can damage organs. There are many causes of anemia, such as dietary deficiency of iron, blood loss, adverse effects of medications, cancer treatments and genetic diseases.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a condition caused by inefficient pumping of the heart, the American Heart Association explains. Sufferers experience trouble breathing and fatigue, resulting from the failing heart's inability to pump blood to the organs. Coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, scar tissue from previous heart attacks and heart valve disease can interfere with the pumping ability of the heart muscle, reducing the amount of blood the heart can pump, or cardiac output. Blood backs up into the tissues and lungs, causing leg swelling and difficulty breathing, which is often worse when lying down. CHF is treated with medications that remove excess fluids, ease blood flow and increase the strength of heart contractions.
