Dyspnea pertains to abrupt and intense shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Although it is commonly characterized by severe chest tightening or suffocation sensation, it is often experienced in different ways by different individuals. Dyspnea may also be experienced on a single occasion or may occur repeatedly. Dyspnea may also occur in otherwise healthy persons such as staying in extreme temperatures, obesity, high altitudes, and very strenuous exercise. Otherwise, dyspnea may indicate an underlying medical problem.
In cases of dyspnea, there is trouble moving air in and/ or out of the lungs. It can be caused by a wide range of causes, ranging from psychological problems to chronic diseases. In most cases, it is caused by medical conditions involving the heart or lungs, as these two organs are involved in carrying oxygen to the tissue while simultaneously removing carbon dioxide. Problems with these organs may result to breathing problems such as shortness of breath.
Causes of Dyspnea
The following are some of the possible conditions may lead to dyspnea:
- Heart attack or heart failure
- Pneumonia
- Asthma
- Pulmonary embolism
- Pneumothorax
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Interstitial lung disease
- Obstruction of upper airway
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Heart dysfunction
- Cardiac tamponade
- Panic attacks
- Anaemia
- Choking
- Obesity
- Broken ribs
Symptoms of Dyspnea
Although dyspnea is not a disease, it may have several accompanying symptoms which may include:
- Using the neck and chest muscle to take deep breaths
- Pursing of lips upon exhalation
- Resting the hands on the knees to aid in chest expansion
- Unable to speak more than two words or long sentences
- Confusion
- Weakness
When to Seek Medical Attention Regarding Dyspnea
It may be confusing when someone should seek medical attention regarding dyspnea. The following tips should help a person decide if it is time to contact the doctor or call for emergency medical services:
- Call emergency medical services or go to an emergency room when:
- Severe dyspnea that does not subside after giving first aid treatment for two to three minutes
- Affects ability to function
- Chest pain
- Syncope (fainting)
- Nausea
- Schedule an appointment with the doctor:
- Trouble breathing upon lying down
- Cyanosis of fingertips or lips
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Wheezing
- Stridor
- High-grade fever and chills
- Cough
First Aid Management for Dyspnea
If there is an underlying cause, treatment for dyspnea will be tailored accordingly. First aid can be administered in cases of dyspnea to reduce shortness of breath until arrival at the emergency room or until the ambulance arrives.
- Have the person rest to avoid exacerbating dyspnea.
- Assist the person in the most comfortable position, whether sitting, lying down or standing.
- If heart attack, carbon monoxide poisoning, pulmonary embolism or other medical emergencies are suspected, call for emergency medical services immediately. Follow proper CPR protocol.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide medical advice or treatment. The information given should not be used for self-diagnosis of possible conditions. Seek medical attention when necessary. To learn more about to how to give first aid to dyspnea, enrol in a CPR and first aid course with an approved American Heart Association provider.
Source:
Shortness of breath. (2013). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved September 27, 2013, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/shortness-of-breath/MY00119