Shortness Of Breath

What is shortness of breath?

Shortness of breath, medically known as dyspnea, is a sensation of not getting enough air in your lungs when you breathe in. With shortness of breath, you may feel:

• Tightness in your chest
• Like you’re suffocating
• A sense of air hunger
• Breathless

Though the cause of your breathing difficulties may not be a serious health issue, shortness of breath may be signs you have a heart or lung condition.

What causes shortness of breath?

Many conditions may cause shortness of breath. You might find it hard to breathe after an intense aerobic workout or when the weather is hot and humid. 

Health conditions that may cause shortness of breath include:

• Anxiety
• Allergic reaction
• Asthma
• Obesity
• Heart arrhythmia
• Congestive heart failure
• Cardiomyopathy
• Pericarditis
• Heart dysfunction
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Interstitial lung disease
• Anemia
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary embolism

Your shortness of breath may come on suddenly and resolve quickly or be a chronic problem that worsens during activity or weather changes. 

When should I see a doctor about my shortness of breath?

You should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if your shortness of breath is severe and affecting your ability to function. You also need emergency medical care if you’re also having chest pain, feeling faint, or experiencing changes in mental clarity.

If you have concerns your shortness of breath may be due to a heart condition, the board-certified cardiologists at Cardiology Specialists of Orange County can help. 

They also recommend you schedule a consultation if your shortness of breath symptoms include swelling in your legs or ankles or difficulty breathing when you lie down. These symptoms may be signs of congestive heart failure. 

What can I expect during a shortness of breath consultation?

You can expect a patient-centered evaluation at Cardiology Specialists of Orange County when you come in with concerns about shortness of breath. 

Your doctor asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history during your exam. They then perform a physical exam and run lab work to assess general health.

To confirm or rule out a cardiac condition, your provider at Cardiology Specialists of Orange County may request diagnostic tests, such as:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Stress testing
• Cardiac catheterization
• Echocardiogram

Cardiology Specialists of Orange County is a state-of-the-art cardiology practice, and they perform most cardiovascular tests on-site.

To schedule a consultation at Cardiology Specialists of Orange County, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.