Shortness of Breath - (Dyspnea) 

Shortness of Breath - (Dyspnea) 

Shortness of breath is a condition in which a person has difficulty breathing. It can occur for many different reasons. For this reason, doctors should evaluate the cause of shortness of breath and appropriate treatment options accordingly. Ifdyspnea is persistent or severe, you should consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

What is Dyspnea?

Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is a feeling of difficulty or distress in breathing that occurs as a result of a problem in body systems such as the respiratory or cardiovascular systems. Generally, it can occur for many reasons, such as respiratory system diseases, cardiovascular diseases, anemia, and metabolic disorders. In addition, psychological reasons such as physical activity, stress or panic attacks can also cause shortness of breath.

What Causes Shortness of Breath ?

There are different answers to the question of what causes shortness of breath. The most common causes are as follows:

• Respiratory diseases
• Psychological reasons, such as panic attacks
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Anemia
• Some drugs used
• Metabolic disorders
• High level of physical activity
• Lack of fitness

How to Diagnose Shortness of Breath?

The following methods are used to diagnose shortness of breath:

• Physical examination
• Laboratory tests
• Echocardiography
• Imaging techniques
• Exercise tests

What Are The Shortness of Breath Symptoms?

Shortness of breath symptoms are as follows:

• Rapid or intense breathing
• Difficulty in breathing
• Abnormal breathing sounds
• Palpitations
• Weakness or fatigue
• Fainting

How to Tell if You Have Dyspnea?

Doctors can use many methods to diagnose shortness of breath. First of all, a physical examination is performed by the physician. The severity of air hunger, breathing rate, breathing sounds and airways are examined in this examination. In addition, the work of the heart and lungs can be listened at rest.

What are the Causes of Shortness of Breath Caused by Heart Diseases?

Shortness of breath caused by heart disease occurs as a result of a problem in the heart or cardiovascular system. The most common causes are as follows:

• Heart failure: It occurs as a result of the heart not pumping enough blood.
• Coronary artery disease (CAD): It occurs as a result of narrowing or occlusion of the heart's vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients.
• Pericarditis: It occurs as a result of inflammation or infection of the heart membrane. In this case, dyspnea occurs, especially when lying down.
• Arrhythmia: It occurs due to the deterioration of the heart rhythm. In this case, dyspnea is accompanied by additional symptoms such as fatigue, palpitations or fainting.

Is Early Diagnosis Important in Shortness of Breath?

Early diagnosis of shortness of breath is critical to prevent or cure the progression of the disease. Early diagnosis saves time in identifying the cause of the disease, evaluating appropriate treatment options, or taking preventive measures. Therefore, if shortness of breath occurs, you should consult a doctor.

How to Treat Shortness of Breath?

The treatment of shortness of breath varies depending on the cause of it. Therefore, doctors should determine the factors causing shortness of breath before the treatment.

The following treatment options can be used depending on the cause of shortness of breath:

• Respiratory diseases: Medicines such as antibiotics, nebules, inhaler drugs or steroids can be used for respiratory diseases such as lung diseases, bronchitis, and asthma. In addition, options such as respiratory therapy, breathing exercises, and oxygen therapy can be used.
• Cardiovascular diseases: For cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and pulmonary embolism, treatments such as drug therapy, pacemaker, heart valve surgery, angioplasty and stent can be used.
• Anemia: Vitamins such as iron, B12, and folic acid can cause anemia.