Shortness Of Breath

What is Shortness of Breath?

Shortness of breath is, as the name implies, a condition in which you cannot get a full breath of air. It can feel like your chest is tightening or you’re suffocating. A variety of conditions can cause shortness of breath, some of which are dangerous. 

Finding the root cause of shortness of breath and treating it can help you feel better, stay active, and reduce your risk of developing more severe problems.

What causes Shortness of Breath?

Shortness of breath can occur because of:

• Colds
• Flu
• COVID-19
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Emphysema 
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Strenuous exercise
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Workplace irritants
• Obstructive sleep apnea

Shortness of breath can also indicate heart problems, including a heart attack, which is why seeking medical attention right away is important. 

Ways you can reduce your risk of shortness of breath include maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise and plenty of sleep, not smoking, and washing your hands often. You should undergo treatment for allergies or use an inhaler as needed if you have asthma or COPD.

How does my doctor diagnose the cause of Shortness of Breath?

To find out the cause of shortness of breath and develop a treatment plan, your Prime Pulmonary & Sleep Center specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical examination and listen to your lungs when you breathe. 

Your doctor may also recommend you undergo:

• Nasal or throat swabs
• Allergy tests
• Asthma testing
• Other lung function tests
• Chest X-rays
• Sputum testing
• Heart function tests
• Sleep studies

Once they make a diagnosis, your pulmonary specialist develops a personalized treatment plan that best matches your needs.

What are the treatment options for Shortness of Breath?

The shortness of breath treatment that’s right for you depends on the severity of and cause of your shortness of breath. Prime Pulmonary & Sleep Center providers may recommend:

Home remedies

Home remedies you can use to relieve shortness of breath include getting plenty of rest, drinking a lot of fluids, avoiding tobacco smoking and workplace irritants, taking over-the-counter medications when needed, and using a CPAP machine if you have sleep apnea.

Prescription medications

Using prescription medications or an inhaler can help you breathe easier if you have asthma, allergies, bronchitis, or other conditions that affect your lungs.

Allergy treatments

If your shortness of breath is due to allergies, your doctor may recommend trying allergy medications or shots for symptom relief. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation teaches you breathing exercises that reduce breathlessness and improve your ability to exercise.

Oxygen therapy

Using supplemental oxygen can help you get a full breath of air when you’re ill or have a chronic lung disease. 

Don’t struggle with shortness of breath when simple treatments can offer you relief. Call the nearest Prime Pulmonary & Sleep Center office or book an appointment online today.