Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, can be a frightening and uncomfortable experience. It is a common symptom that can be caused by a range of conditions, from minor to life-threatening.

It’s important to know when to seek medical help if you are experiencing shortness of breath.

Common Causes of Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including:.

Asthma
Pneumonia
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Heart disease
Anemia
Anxiety or panic attacks
Lung cancer

When to Seek Medical Help

If you are experiencing shortness of breath, it’s important to seek medical help right away if:.

You feel like you can’t catch your breath or are struggling to breathe
You have chest pain or discomfort
You have a rapid heartbeat or feel like your heart is racing
You are coughing up blood
You are lightheaded or feel like you might pass out
You are wheezing or making high-pitched sounds when you breathe

In some cases, shortness of breath can be a medical emergency. If you or someone you know is experiencing severe shortness of breath or the symptoms are getting worse rapidly, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order tests to diagnose the cause of your shortness of breath. These may include:.

X-rays or CT scans
Blood tests
Lung function tests
Echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart)

The treatment for shortness of breath will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, oxygen therapy or medications may be necessary to help you breathe more easily.

Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or losing weight to improve your lung function.

Preventing Shortness of Breath

Preventing shortness of breath will depend on the underlying cause. If you have a chronic condition such as asthma or COPD, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to manage your symptoms and avoid triggers.

Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can also help prevent shortness of breath.

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you are experiencing shortness of breath, it’s important to contact your doctor right away. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and determine if further testing or treatment is necessary.

If your symptoms are severe or getting worse rapidly, seek emergency medical attention immediately.