SHORTNESS OF BREATH: WHAT YOUR BODY MIGHT BE TELLING YOU

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, occurs when an individual experiences difficulties or discomfort while breathing. It may feel as though there is not enough oxygen entering your lungs, or an inability to stabilize your breathing.

There are dozens of possible causes for shortness of breath. In some cases, it can occur due to being physically unfit and obese. This can be remedied by lifestyle changes.

In other cases, shortness of breath may indicate a serious cardiovascular or pulmonary condition. Therefore, if you are experiencing constant breathlessness, it is a good idea to visit a specialist pulmonologist or cardiologist in Dubai.

Causes of Shortness of Breath

The causes of breathlessness are far and vast. In a healthy person, shortness of breath may be caused by strenuous exercise, climbing stairs, bad air quality, or extreme temperatures.

On the other hand, shortness of breath may be the symptom of a severe cardiovascular or pulmonary condition. Some possible causes of shortness of breath can include:

  • Asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Heart disease (heart attack, heart failure)
  • Anemia
  • Pulmonary embolism (blood clot on lungs)
  • Pneumonia
  • Obesity
  • Abnormal heartbeat
  • Pulmonary fibrosis
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Low blood pressure

When you visit a specialist cardiac-thoracic or cardiologist in Dubai, they will assess your symptoms to determine the cause. If you have high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of heart disease, then it is possible that it is related to a cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms of Shortness of Breath

It is normal to experience breathlessness after a vigorous workout or exertion. However, if you experience some of these emergency symptoms, then you must seek medical assistance immediately:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Fainting
  • Nausea
  • Swelling in your feet and ankles
  • Trouble breathing when you lie flat
  • High fever, chills, and cough
  • Lips or fingertips turning blue
  • Wheezing, a whistling-type sound when you breathe in or out
  • A high-pitched noise when you breathe
  • Worsening shortness of breath after using an inhaler
  • Breathlessness that does not get better after 30 minutes of rest
  • Shortness breath if you have previously experienced heart failure

Moreover, if you have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or atrial fibrillation, then it is a good idea to visit a cardiologist in Dubai for your dyspnea. A family history of heart disease is another factor for seeking treatment.

Treatment for Shortness of Breath

The treatment of shortness of breath will depend on its root cause. For less serious conditions, dyspnea can be treated with lifestyle changes such as:

  • Avoid asthma triggers
  • Stop smoking
  • Losing weight
  • Exercise
  • Breathing techniques
  • Avoiding strenuous exercise
  • Routine health check ups

If your specialist pulmonologist or cardiologist in Dubai determines that the cause is cardio or pulmonary related, then you will be directed towards the right treatment. This may include:

  • Using oxygen
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation program
  • Medication
  • Supplemental oxygen
  • Cardiac rehabilitation
  • Surgery

In severe cases, you may be recommended for surgery. An expert cardio-thoracic surgeon in Dubai can effectively handle surgeries involving cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions related to breathlessness.

German Heart Center – the Best Heart Hospital in Dubai

If you are experiencing shortness of breath, seeking medical treatment is important. Not only is it discomforting, but it can also be a sign of a serious cardio or pulmonary condition. Therefore, it is not something to take lightly.

German Heart Centre is the leading heart hospital in Dubai. Our team includes experienced cardio-thoracic surgeon, pulmonologists, and the best cardiologist in Dubai. Book an appointment today for the best medical treatment.

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