Shortness of breath is the sensation that you can't get enough air into your lungs. It might indicate an underlying health condition. The sensation might be worse while you are physically active or when you rest down. Other symptoms might include a cough or fever. If you are having any of these issues, see a breath-testing doctor (https://newyorkcardiac.com/shortness-of-breath-dyspnea). If your shortness of breath is sudden or severe, or if you are also experiencing chest symptoms, contact 911. Symptoms Shortness of breath makes you feel as if you can't get enough air. You don't feel like you're getting enough oxygen into your lungs or breathing deeply. You may also notice a tightness in your chest. Causes Shortness of breath can be caused by several factors, including: - Asthma; - Other lung illnesses (including emphysema, which is primarily caused by smoking); - Heart failure; - Panic attacks; - Allergies. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, coughing, and/or fever, you may have a chest infection or pneumonia. Less common causes of breathing difficulty include lung cancer, blood clots in the lungs, air leaks around the lungs, and scarring of the lung tissue. Diagnosis Your doctor can assist you in determining the root cause of your breathing difficulty. They will start by asking you questions about your symptoms and doing a physical examination. Your doctor may also prescribe certain tests. To determine the reason for your shortness of breath, your doctor may conduct a chest X-ray. They will also measure your body's oxygen saturation by inserting an oximeter on your finger. They may also request an electrocardiogram (ECG). During this test, your doctor will have you lie down to monitor your heart. The ECG equipment makes an image, or tracing, of your heart's electrical impulses. You may require a computed tomography (CT) scan, which is a sort of X-ray. Your doctor may use a spirometer to test the intensity of your breathing and the amount of oxygen in your blood. You may also need a blood test or a specialist lung test known as a pulmonary function test (PFT). Can Shortness of Breath Be Reduced or Avoided? The ability to avoid shortness of breath is determined by the underlying cause. If it is caused by allergies, you may be able to avoid it by determining your allergy trigger. Once you know what causes your allergies, you may try to avoid it. If your shortness of breath is caused by smoking, quitting can help to prevent it. Other factors may not be as easily avoided. Inhalers can assist if the problem is caused by a medical condition like asthma. Treatment Your doctor will address the source of your breathing difficulty. If you smoke, you must quit in order to benefit from therapy. Ask your doctor for assistance. Also, avoid inhaling substances that might irritate your lungs, such as paint fumes and automobile exhaust. If your doctor thinks it's acceptable, you should aim to get more exercise. Living With Shortness of Breath It might be frightening to experience regular shortness of breath. It can become less frightening if you learn to regulate it. Work with your doctor to develop a personalized control strategy. Your doctor may recommend medicine, an exercise regimen, breathing methods, or a mix of the above. In some circumstances, they may suggest supplementary oxygen. Questions to Ask Your Doctor - What is the most likely reason for my shortness of breath? - Do I need any tests to discover the source of my shortness of breath? - Is shortness of breath indicative of a more serious problem? - Is it safe to exercise? What type of workout may I do? - Based on the reason for my shortness of breath, what is the best treatment option? - What lifestyle modifications can I do at home to assist in alleviating my symptoms?