Dyspnea

Dyspnea is a subjective experience of difficulty or discomfort in breathing. It is sometimes referred to as shortness of breath or breathlessness. It is a symptom, not a particular medical ailment, and it can be brought on by a number of underlying disorders that damage the body's circulatory, respiratory, or other systems.

People who experience dyspnea may describe feeling as though they are not getting enough oxygen, that their chest feels constricted, or that their breathing is happening too quickly. Dyspnea can be modest and temporary, as it happens after intensive physical exertion, or severe and chronic, demanding medical attention.

There are various different conditions that can cause dyspnea, including interstitial lung disease, pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Breathlessness may also be caused by cardiovascular disorders such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or heart failure. Non-respiratory factors may also be involved, including anxiety, obesity, anemia, and neuromuscular disorders.

Finding and addressing the underlying cause of dyspnea is an important element of its assessment and treatment. Healthcare experts may undertake diagnostic testing, such as pulmonary function tests, imaging investigations, or blood tests, to discover the underlying cause, dependant on the strength and type of the illness.

Dyspnea has a number of explanations, so a complete evaluation is important to establish the best course of treatment. Depending on the underlying condition, management techniques may comprise medication, lifestyle adjustments, pulmonary rehabilitation, or surgical interventions.