Problems with breathing often are described as shortness of breath, a feeling of inadequate air intake and chest tightness. In most cases, problems with breathing occur as a result of abnormalities in the lungs. These abnormalities can be chronic or acute and caused by atypical lung function or bacterial infections. Chronic heart conditions also can cause problems with breathing.
Asthma
Asthma is characterized by the swelling and narrowing of the airways in the lungs as well as the production of excess mucus. A combination of narrow airways and mucus buildup leads to problems with breathing that include shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Breathing problems usually occur in attacks that can be triggered by a number of situations, including airborne allergies, respiratory infections, increased physical activity, cold air and increased stress, according to MayoClinic.com.
Severity of asthma differs between individuals. Some affected with asthma have minor breathing difficulties, whereas others may experience life-threatening asthma attacks. Treatment generally consists of two types of medications: quick-relief inhalers and long-term control medications. Quick-relief inhalers include medications that work quickly to reduce airway inflammation during an asthma attack. Long-term control medications, usually taken daily, include a combination of anti-inflammatory medications.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses. Bacteria are the most common cause of pneumonia in adults, and bacterial pneumonia is the most serious form, according to MedlinePlus. Pneumonia can develop as a result of normal bacteria in the nose traveling to the lungs or from direct inhalation of germs. The most common symptoms of pneumonia are breathing problems that include a mucus-filled cough and shortness of breath and fever and chills. Other possible symptoms are confusion, headache, excessive sweating, loss of appetite and chest pain.
Most cases of pneumonia can be treated successfully with a series of antibiotics or antiviral medications. In those with serious infections or pneumonia that accompanies other illnesses, hospitalization may be required. During hospitalization, patients receive intravenous antibiotics and oxygen therapy.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease in which plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, causing the arteries to narrow and significantly impede blood flow. The buildup of plaque, called atherosclerosis, develops gradually due to smoking, chronic high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood glucose. The most common symptom of coronary artery disease is chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. As plaque buildup increases, symptoms become more severe.
Initial treatment for coronary artery disease consists of a combination of medications and lifestyle changes, such as the cessation of smoking and following a low-fat, low-salt diet. In some cases, medical procedures to open up the arteries and increase blood flow may be necessary.
