Why shortness of breath occurs

Together, you can go over how to manage your shortness of breath. See if you qualify for specific treatment, like pulmonary rehab.

The following images illustrate every step in the process: Shortness of Breath: An Overview. In a normal state, the pulmonary and cardiovascular organs play a role in maintaining stable levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

The carotid body is a nerve bundle in the artery in the neck. It monitors oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and communicates the information to the brain.

The respiratory muscles, diaphragm, and chest wall work together to let air in and out. The breathing muscles contract, which lets the lungs expand and inhale air. An open airway allows the air to flow smoothly in and out of the lungs.

Alveoli in the lungs exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The heart pumps blood to the body. Red blood cells in the blood carry oxygen to the body. Blood with less oxygen returns to the lungs. Nerves and receptors in the body send signals to the brain that the organs are functioning properly. The brain regulates the organs so they continue working properly. Key facts about Shortness of Breath.

Shortness of breath, or breathlessness, is discomfort or difficulty breathing. The medical term for shortness of breath is dyspnea. Shortness of breath is a common symptom. It may be related to serious diseases, or it could be a result of being out of shape physically. Your health care provider should assess whether shortness of breath is treatable with lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or losing weight. Serious conditions associated with shortness of breath include: Asthma Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD Heart disease heart attack, heart failure Anemia Blood clots in the lungs, also called pulmonary embolism.

How serious is Shortness of Breath? In a healthy person, shortness of breath can be caused by: Very strenuous exercise Extreme temperatures Bad air quality Obesity High altitude Choking Carbon monoxide poisoning Allergic reaction for example, following a bee sting If you have unexplained shortness of breath, especially if it comes on suddenly and is severe, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Causes of Shortness of Breath Heart and lung conditions cause most cases of shortness of breath. Acute Shortness of Breath Acute shortness of breath can come on suddenly and last for a short period of time.

Heart conditions: Heart attack Heart failure Heart rhythm disorder arrhythmia Increased fluid around the heart Psychological conditions: Anxiety Depression Panic attacks. Find a comprehensive range of specialists at convenient locations throughout Maryland. Contact us or find a patient care location. Privacy Statement. Non-Discrimination Notice. All rights reserved. Skip Navigation. I Want To I Want to Find Research Faculty Enter the last name, specialty or keyword for your search below.

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