Shortness of breath: causes, symptoms, and treatment

What is shortness of breath?

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is when you have trouble breathing or feel uncomfortable while doing so. If experience shortness of breath that becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or dizziness visit the closest emergency room.

Shortness of breath can come in different forms. It may feel like you can't take a deep breath, have difficulty exhaling completely, or become breathless during simple activities or at rest.

Remember: shortness of breath is not a condition on its own but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. The severity and duration of shortness of breath vary from person to person, and the cause can range from something harmless to a more serious concern.

What causes shortness of breath?

Shortness of breath can have numerous underlying causes, and identifying the specific trigger is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment.

Here are some common factors that can contribute to this symptom.

• Respiratory conditions. Various respiratory conditions can lead to shortness of breath, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or bronchitis.
• Cardiovascular issues. Heart-related problems like congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, or arrhythmias can lead to inadequate blood flow or oxygen supply, leading to shortness of breath.
• Anxiety and stress. Intense emotions, anxiety, or panic attacks can cause rapid breathing, chest tightness, and an inability to catch your breath.
• Physical exertion. Engaging in intense physical activity, especially if you're not accustomed to it, can temporarily cause shortness of breath.
• Allergies and respiratory infections. Allergic reactions or respiratory infections, like the common cold or flu, can lead to inflammation, congestion, and mucus production, making breathing harder.
• Environmental factors. Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollution, chemicals, or allergens can trigger shortness of breath, particularly in individuals with sensitivities or pre-existing respiratory conditions.
• Other factors. Additional factors contributing to shortness of breath include obesity, anemia, certain medications, hormonal changes, or underlying medical conditions like acid reflux or muscle weakness.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and everyone’s experience may vary.

When to seek urgent care treatment for shortness of breath

Experiencing shortness of breath can be distressing. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is always best to seek out urgent care and get checked by a health care professional.

Here are some signs that your shortness of breath warrants immediate medical attention.

• Sudden onset or severe symptoms. If you suddenly develop intense shortness of breath, especially if it's accompanied by chest pain, rapid heart rate, dizziness, or fainting, it could be a sign of a medical emergency.
• Worsening or persistent symptoms. If your shortness of breath gradually worsens or persists despite rest or home remedies, it's important to have it evaluated by a health care professional. This is particularly crucial if it interferes with your ability to perform daily activities or sleep.
• Presence of other concerning symptoms. If you experience additional concerning symptoms alongside shortness of breath, such as severe coughing, wheezing, fever, excessive fatigue, or bluish discoloration of the lips or fingertips. It may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
• Known respiratory or cardiac conditions. Visit your local CityMD urgent care clinic if you have a history of respiratory or cardiac conditions, such as asthma, COPD, or heart disease.
• Allergic reactions. If shortness of breath occurs suddenly after exposure to a known allergen, such as a food, medication, or insect bite, visit CityMD.

Address shortness of breath causes at CityMD

Recognizing triggers, understanding associated symptoms, and seeking timely medical evaluation are crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent or concerning shortness of breath, walk right into CityMD for fast and reliable urgent care.

Our experienced health care providers are dedicated to assessing your condition, providing accurate diagnoses, and offering personalized treatment plans. Don't ignore persistent symptoms — take charge of your health today.