Running can be a very soothing and relaxing activity. As you move through the repetitive motions, your mind often drifts away from your worries and into a state of tranquility. That is, however, until you suddenly feel depleted of oxygen and your body begins desperately trying to return to normal. Although shortness of breath is not always dangerous, it can be extremely frustrating for any runner.
Symptoms
As explained by the "The New York Times" Health Guide, shortness of breath involves "a sensation of difficult or uncomfortable breathing or a feeling of not getting enough air." The condition is also referred to as "breathing difficulty," "breathlessness" or "dyspnea." When an episode occurs, a runner may feel as though she cannot take in enough oxygen to meet her body's needs. She may find herself gasping for air, frantically trying to inhale as much as possible.
Minor Causes
Shortness of breath while running is not only common, but also quite insignificant in most cases. As explained by LungsOnline.com, the main factor behind the symptom is a build-up of carbon dioxide in the body. Every time a muscle works, it produces carbon dioxide. As these carbon dioxide levels accumulate, they trigger the body to breathe more rapidly in an effort to lower the carbon dioxide levels. This rapid breathing commonly results in the feeling of shortness of breath. As soon as the carbon dioxide levels have returned to normal, shortness of breath should be relieved.
Serious Causes
In some cases, shortness of breath can be caused by mores serious problems, including diseases of the heart, lungs and/or blood. In the case of heart disease, the heart may not be able to pump enough blood to meet the body's oxygen needs. In the case of blood disease, the blood is unable to carry enough oxygen to the body's tissues. With lung disease (emphysema, asthma), the body has a difficult time exchanging carbon dioxide and oxygen in the lungs. All three of these conditions can result in shortness of breath during vigorous physical activity, such as running.
Running Modifications
Unfortunately, some people experience this annoying symptom every time they run. Whether they run 1 mile or 10 miles, uphill or downhill, the body simply responds with breathlessness. However, certain modifications to your running routine may help prevent shortness of breath. Avoid running in extremely humid temperatures or near areas with high pollution or pollen counts. As you run, increase your level of exertion gradually, which allows your breathing to catch up more easily.
Solution
Taking the time to relax and catch your breath is generally the only treatment needed for shortness of breath. If you develop the symptom while running, you should stop running and find a place to sit down. Remain calm and focus on exhaling completely before you attempt to inhale more oxygen. Once you have caught your breath, you can resume your run.
That said, severe episodes of shortness of breath may require oxygen or inhaled medications. Contact a medical professional if your shortness of breath is accompanied by other serious symptoms, including chest pain, dizziness, heart palpitations, wheezing and/or unusual swelling of the legs and feet.. A physician can suggest the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
