{"id":1839,"date":"2018-06-08T07:21:41","date_gmt":"2018-06-08T07:21:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=1839"},"modified":"2021-05-17T17:49:42","modified_gmt":"2021-05-17T17:49:42","slug":"10-shortness-of-breath-causes-you-need-to-be-aware-of","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/10-shortness-of-breath-causes-you-need-to-be-aware-of\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Shortness of Breath Causes You Need to be Aware of"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The human body can survive for over 6 weeks without food, 4 days without water, but only a few minutes without air. Experiencing shortness of breath can be a frightening experience. The inability to consume enough oxygen creates panic in anyone and if you\u2019ve ever had a shortness of breath, then you can understand the emotional fear of not being able to breathe correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shortness of breath, medically termed dyspnea, is one of the most common complaints received by physicians across all genders, races, and age groups. The symptoms of dyspnea vary widely, from chronic to acute. Patients describe symptoms as a tightening of the chest or a feeling of a weight placed on their chest making it difficult to breathe normally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The causes of dyspnea vary as much as the symptoms. High-altitudes, extreme temperature, and strenuous exercise are all common causes of the disorder. However, if you experience shortness of breath and lead a sedentary lifestyle with a poor diet and little to no exercise, shortness of breath is a sign of a more severe underlying health issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are 10 causes for shortness of breath, if you experience any of them, seek the immediate attention of a medical professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Asthma<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This chronic lung disease creates an intermittent narrowing and inflammation <\/a>of the airways, obstructing normal breathing function. Excess mucus is produced resulting in a wet cough. Bronchoconstriction occurs when the muscles encircling the airways tighten and constrict the ability to pass air to the lungs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Medical professionals grade asthma by its severity of symptoms ranging from severe persistent, moderate persistent, mild persistent, or intermittent. Depending on the category of asthmatic attack, an individual may be diagnosed as severely asthmatic, mildly asthmatic or intermittently asthmatic. People who have severe asthma receive debilitating attacks that require immediate treatment with inhaler medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flare-ups of the condition can occur for no apparent reason, and symptoms include; shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, a tight chest, and shortness of breath. If you think you may be asthmatic, visit your medical professional for a diagnosis using a bronchodilator test. If diagnosed asthmatic, your condition can be managed with medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This progressive lung disease, also known as COPD, makes it challenging to get air in and out of the lungs. The symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease progress over time, with cigarette <\/a>smoking identified as the primary cause of COPD. There are 2 principal diagnoses for COPD; chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Since most individuals diagnosed have symptoms of both conditions, the general term COPD applies instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flare-ups in COPD can be frequent or occasional, with symptoms including tightness of the chest, a deep throaty cough that brings up a lot of mucus, as well as wheezing and shortness of breath. If left undiagnosed, symptoms can include weight loss, fatigue, and lowered feeling of well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

COPD is diagnosed using lung function tests, arterial blood gas analysis, and chest X-ray. There is no cure for COPD, but smoking cessation reduces the symptoms. In some cases, the condition may require lung surgery to remove affected tissue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Pneumonia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Airborne bacteria, fungi, and viruses are the possible causes of pneumonia<\/a>. This lung infection can be diagnosed as severe or mild, depending on the severity of symptoms. The disease has a more profound effect on older adults and infants. If not treated immediately, it can become a life-threatening condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pneumonia risk factors include weakened immune systems that are trying to recover from other infections, such as the flu. You also run the risk of contracting pneumonia if you have a pre-existing health problem, or you drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of pneumonia include fever, fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, as well as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. A chest X-ray diagnoses pneumonia and the cause of the disease discovered using a blood test or analysis of phlegm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lobar pneumonia is confined to one part of the lung, while bronchopneumonia infects several areas at once. If left undiagnosed and untreated, pneumonia can develop dangerous complications such as bacteria in the blood, accumulation of fluid in the lungs, or the development of abscesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Pneumothorax<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This dangerous lung condition causes a partial or total collapse of the lungs. Pneumothorax <\/a>occurs when there is an abnormal presence of air in the area between the chest wall and the lungs. A chest injury, such as blunt force trauma, the rupture of air blisters, and mechanical ventilation are all common causes of pneumothorax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individuals diagnosed with COPD or AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) are at an increased risk of developing the condition. Symptoms of this chronic disease include excessive sweating, shortness of breath, and sharp chest pain. Medical professionals diagnose pneumothorax using a CT scan or chest X-ray.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most significant risk factor for the development of pneumothorax is cigarette smoking. Symptoms of COPD accompany almost all cases of the condition. Treatment for the disease involves smoking cessation, as well as observation, air removal, and possibly surgery to seal the leaking air. Individuals diagnosed with pneumothorax should avoid air travel or other activities that increase air-pressure, such as scuba diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5. Lung Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This disease is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Every year, over 150,000 Americans die from this dreaded disease, with many of the casualties being preventable. The primary cause of lung cancer<\/a> in both men and women is cigarette smoking. The uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in lung tissue is the hallmark indicator of lung cancer, with two different diagnoses; small cell (SCLC) and non-small cell (NSCLC).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over 85% of diagnoses are for small-cell lung cancer, which includes squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. The most common form of lung cancer diagnosed is adenocarcinoma. There is no cure for lung cancer, and individuals requiring a lung transplant may be refused the procedure due to the majority of cases being self-inflicted through cigarette smoking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of SCLC and NSCLC include; shortness of breath, painful coughing, coughing with blood, weight loss, bone and joint pain, as well as wheezing and chest pain. Diagnosis of lung cancer is achieved through imaging studies (CT scan or chest X-ray) and a bronchoscopy to retrieve tissue samples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. Anemia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A deficiency of red blood cells is known as anemia<\/a>. Decreased production of RBC, bleeding, or increased cellular turnover and cell destruction are all risk factors for developing anemia. Red blood cells carry oxygen to body tissue, and when anemia impairs this function, symptoms begin to present themselves. Fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and chest pain are all symptoms of anemia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The effects of the disorder can range from mild to severe, with the most severe cases involving symptoms that last for the long-term. The most common cause of anemia is an iron deficiency. Medical professionals diagnose the disorder using a blood panel to analyze red blood cell count and a check of blood iron levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Complications may arise if anemia is left undiagnosed and untreated. Kidney disease, malnutrition, bleeding, and genetic disorders are all common complications related to individuals with anemia. The disorder can be treated efficiently using iron supplements, but if left untreated, the condition can become fatal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Pulmonary Embolism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical assistance. When blood clots in the lungs, it creates a pulmonary embolism<\/a>, blocking one of the pulmonary arteries supplying lung tissue. The primary cause of pulmonary embolism is DVT (deep vein thrombosis). DVT develops in the lower limbs of the body, causing blood clots. These clots circulate through the veins until they get caught in the lungs and create a pulmonary embolism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Risk factors associated with the development of deep vein thrombosis include; surgery complications, hip or femur fractures, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and cancer. The symptoms of pulmonary embolism may be easily confused with other diseases or disorders of the lungs. One of the primary tell-tale signs of a pulmonary embolism is a painful swelling in the calf muscle or a throbbing of the upper leg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diagnosis requires a series of blood tests, chest X-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary angiography (injection of dye into the arteries of the lungs). Treatment for the condition includes blood-thinner medications to thin the clots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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8. Tuberculosis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis <\/a>is the cause of the highly infectious disease, tuberculosis (TB). This disease affects the lungs and creates an over-production of mucus, leading to a horse, violent cough. The disease is highly contagious and spreads via human contact with saliva and body fluids. While TB primarily affects the lungs, it can also cause health issues with the spine, kidneys, and brain as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individuals infected with tuberculosis experience symptoms of coughing, with or without blood, increased mucus production, fatigue, fever, shortness of breath and weight loss. TB can also exist latently in the body, with carriers utterly unaware that they have the disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TB is diagnosed using a skin test to determine if the individual has experienced exposure to the disease. Patients that produce a positive skin test then receive a chest X-ray for the final diagnosis. Latent TB is treated using a course of antibiotics that lasts for up to 9-months or more. Patients with active TB are required to run antibiotics for a year or longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This psychiatric condition, also known as GAD, is characterized by heightened feelings of persistent anxiety that interfere with an individual\u2019s average daily behavior, decreasing their quality of life. The condition can develop slowly over a period, or have a sudden onset. Medical professionals are at a loss to explain the cause of anxiety<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, reasons for GAD may include a distressed relationship, financial pressures, or excessive pressure at work.
\nOver 80% of GAD diagnosis come from females, and further risk factors include a family history of the disorder, a reclusive or shy personality. The symptoms of the condition include panic attacks, shortness of breath, elevated heart rate, paranoia, and mood swings. Severe GAD may result in insomnia and the possible development of autoimmune disorders like adrenal fatigue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Edition (DSM-5) describes the guidelines for diagnosing the disease. A qualified psychiatrist is required to make the final diagnosis and prescribe medications and therapy for treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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10. Sarcoidosis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This disease can infect any organ, and it commonly affects the lungs. Sarcoidosis <\/a>is creating the growth of granulomas, clusters of inflamed cells, within the lungs of the human body. The case of the disease is still unknown to medical science, but risk factors include a family history of the disease, with the majority of cases occurring in females with African-American descent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Medical professionals believe that sarcoidosis occurs due to an immune response to foreign substances. Symptoms of the condition include; shortness of breath, a cough, fever, wheezing, fatigue, joint pain, dry skin, as well as chest pain, seizures and vision loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doctors find it challenging to diagnose sarcoidosis, as the process involves blood tests, CT scans, chest-X rays, and biopsy of lung tissue. If the diagnosis identifies granulomas, medications are administered by your doctor to help manage the symptoms. There is no cure for sarcoidosis, and in the case of severely damaged organs, a transplant may be necessary<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Chemical Exposure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who work around dangerous chemicals <\/a>need to use respirator equipment to filter the chemicals from the air. Compounds such as chlorine and sulfur can dramatically affect the airways, causing them to constrict \u2013 resulting in shortness of breath.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, you don\u2019t have to work in a chemical factory to risk exposure. Tossing cups of chlorine into your swimming pool can cause shortness of breath if you breathe in particles as you toss in the chlorine. You may notice a tightness in the chest, and a dizzy feeling as the chlorine enters your lungs, constricting the bronchial tubes that lead to the alveoli. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exposure to cleaning chemicals and agents in the home may also cause shortness of breath. Products like oven cleaner and strong detergents may also cause respiratory constriction if you breathe them in while cleaning. Always ensure you use a mask when working with chemicals to reduce your exposure to these harmful substances.<\/span><\/wp-block><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This condition occurs when you breathe in carbon monoxide<\/a>, and it starts to build up in your bloodstream. As the carbon monoxide volume accumulates in your blood, the body begins to replace oxygen with carbon monoxide. As a result, carbon monoxide poisoning occurs and damages tissues and blood vessels. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individuals who have high exposure to carbon monoxide gas may start to feel a shortness of breath, followed by feelings of lightheadedness and fatigue. If carbon monoxide levels continue to climb, you run the risk of passing out, resulting in coma or death if no-one discovers you in your unconscious state. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

CO3 is an odorless and colorless gas, which means that you won\u2019t notice any signs of the poisoning occurring until it\u2019s too late. The window for recovery is short, and you\u2019ll require oxygen therapy to clear the toxin from your blood and return your body to its normal oxygen level.<\/span><\/wp-block><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. Anaphylastic Shock<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People with allergies <\/a>run the risk of developing anaphylactic shock during exposure to the offending substance. For example, people that are allergic to bee-stings are a prime example of this condition. When stung by a bee, the body starts to swell, and you\u2019ll notice your eyes begin to turn puffy, and you develop shortness of breath.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If left untreated, the inflammation can cause the throat to close completely, resulting in the inability to breathe. This state of anaphylaxis occurs due to the body releasing chemicals to fight off the allergy, but instead of helping, these chemicals induce anaphylactic shock. As a result, blood pressure drops and the airways start to narrow.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This condition can be fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, doctors can treat the condition efficiently using antihistamine medication or steroids to treat the inflammation. Most people suffering from allergies will carry drugs on them at all times to deal with unexpected situations, such as bee stings.<\/span><\/wp-block>
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14. Cardiomegaly<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This condition describes an enlarged heart. While cardiomegaly <\/a>is not a disease, it\u2019s usually a sign of an underlying cardiovascular disorder. Doctors test for the presence of cardiomegaly, using chest x-rays or MRI scans to complete a diagnosis. This disorder can occur due to a variety of conditions and is not always a permanent condition. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pregnant women can develop cardiomegaly, due to the increased need for circulation to supply the fetus with oxygenated blood during the pregnancy. An expectant mother typically experiences a reduction in symptoms shortly after giving birth. Cardiomegaly can place pressure on the lungs as it expands in the chest cavity, leading to shortness of breath. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, in some cases, cardiomegaly can be a sign of coronary artery disease or heart valve problems, where the heart expands to deal with the loss of capacity. Specific disorders and diseases cause the heart chambers to thicken and dilate, enlarging the heart. Doctors treat cardiomegaly using medications, or in advanced cases, surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n

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