What Causes Shortness Of Breath?
Shortness of breath is one of the most common symptoms of heart disease. Find out what causes it and how to treat it.
Shortness of breath is often caused by an underlying medical condition, such as congestive heart failure, lung cancer, pneumonia, asthma, or other respiratory diseases. It can also be a symptom of other problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or thyroid disorders.
Know the Signs And Symptoms
If you notice shortness of breath, call your doctor right away. He or she will perform tests to determine whether there is an underlying cause. Treatment depends on the cause.
Understand The Different Types Of Heart Disease
There are two main categories of heart disease: coronary artery disease (CAD) and congestive heart failure (CHF). CAD occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. This buildup narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart. As a result, oxygen isn’t delivered to the heart muscle properly.
Learn About Common Treatments For Shortness Of Breath
If CAD is left untreated, it can lead to CHF. In CHF, fluid collects in the lungs because the heart isn’t pumping enough blood through them. Fluid also accumulates in other parts of the body, such as the legs and abdomen. These fluids cause swelling and make breathing difficult.
Be Aware Of Other Conditions That Can Cause Shortness Of Breath
There are several different reasons why people might develop shortness of breath. One reason is that the heart muscle has become damaged by a heart attack. Another reason is that the heart is enlarged due to high blood pressure. A third reason is that the lungs are filled with fluid.
Learn about the different kinds of shortness of breath
Shortness of breath can occur when there is not enough oxygen getting into the body. This happens when the airways between the nose and the lungs are narrowed. It can also happen when the lungs fill up with fluid. In either case, the result is that less oxygen gets into the bloodstream.