Shortness of Breath (Dyspnoea)
What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnoea, is a feeling of being unable to breathe well enough. It can be a sign of a serious health condition, especially when related to cardiac (heart) issues.
Common Cardiac Causes of Shortness of Breath:
- Heart Failure: The heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowed or blocked coronary arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Heart Attack: A blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle causing damage.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that affect the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
- Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle that make it harder for the heart to pump blood.
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart.
- Valvular Heart Disease: Malfunctioning heart valves that affect blood flow within the heart.
Symptoms Associated with Cardiac Shortness of Breath
- Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or when lying flat.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet.
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Persistent coughing or wheezing.
- Need to sleep with multiple pillows or sit up to breathe easily.
When to Seek Medical Help
- If you experience sudden or severe shortness of breath.
- If shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain, fainting, nausea, or a bluish tint to the lips or fingers.
- If you have a history of heart disease and notice a new or worsening symptom.
Diagnosis
To determine the cause of shortness of breath, especially related to cardiac issues, we may use:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart’s electrical activity.
- Electrocardiogram Monitoring (Ambulatory ECG): Monitor the heart’s electrical activity.
- Echocardiogram: Ultrasound to check heart structure and function.
- Chest X-ray: Looks at the lungs and heart.
- Blood Tests: Check for markers of heart damage or other conditions.
- Pulmonary Function Tests: Measure how well your lungs are working.
- Stress Tests: Assess how your heart works during physical stress. (stress echo and MRI)
- CT Scan: Detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
Treatment
The treatment for shortness of breath due to cardiac causes depends on the underlying condition:
- Medications: Such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or anticoagulants to manage heart conditions.
- Lifestyle Changes: Dietary modifications, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol.
- Procedures: Angioplasty, stent placement, or surgery to improve blood flow.
Prevention
- Maintain a healthy diet low in salt and saturated fats.
- Exercise regularly as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Monitor and manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counselling.
- Follow your treatment plan if you have an existing heart condition.
Important Notes
- Always take shortness of breath seriously, especially if you have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.
- Keep a record of your symptoms, their frequency, and what triggers or relieves them to help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis.