Shortness of Breath
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath, medically known as ‘dyspnea’, is typically an uncomfortable feeling of being unable to breathe deeply or easily. It can come on suddenly or gradually develop from mild to severe. While shortness of breath can be a symptom of a heart attack, it's important to remember it has a variety of causes.
At HeartCare Texas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the root causes of shortness of breath. Our expert team of cardiologists is committed to helping you breathe easier and live a healthier, more active life.
What causes shortness of breath?
Heart Conditions: Heart conditions like arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) and valvular heart diseases can often cause shortness of breath, which is also a significant symptom of a heart attack.
Lung Conditions: Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pneumonia, and blood clots in the lungs are all potential causes of shortness of breath.
Other Causes: Anemia, anxiety, deconditioning (lack of physical activity), and even certain medications can contribute to shortness of breath.
What are the symptoms of dyspnea?
Some common signs of dyspnea are:
- Struggling to get a deep breath
- Heart palpitations or rapid breathing (tachypnea)
- Tightness in the chest
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Feeling like you need to force yourself to breathe deeply
Diagnosis and treatment for shortness of breath at HeartCare Texas
At Heartcare Texas, our experienced cardiologists and pulmonologists work closely with patients to diagnose the underlying causes. The process involves a physical examination, a review of the patient’s medical history, and an essential series of diagnostic tests like:
ECG: To detect irregularities in heart rhythm, rate, and other potential issues.
Echocardiogram: To evaluate heart structure, valve function, and heart muscle health.
Stress tests: To monitor the heart's performance under physical exertion.
Chest X-ray: To assess lungs and heart health.
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs): To measure lung efficiency.
Blood tests: To check for anemia or other underlying conditions.
Our treatment regimen also depends on the specific causes. Treatment choices range from medications to lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking and weight management), breathing exercises, or even anxiety-relieving medications.
Don't hesitate to contact HeartCare Texas if you experience persistent or concerning shortness of breath. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your overall well-being.