Fact Checked
Overview of Breathing Problems
Problems with breathing are one of the main reason why people visit the hospital. It is also of the main reasons why people phone for an ambulance.
It normal for a person to become out of breath when they have over-exerted themselves but when it starts quickly, it is normally an indication of un underlying medical condition. This condition is also known as dyspnea.
What Can You Do
- Phone your doctor right away if you notice breathing issues because there might be an underlying problem with your airways and lungs or even heart problems. The doctor will examine your condition based on the symptoms you describe and from there he will send you for tests and ma even admit you to the hospital for further observation.
- It can be a terrifying experience when you can’t get any air in but your GP will know the correct procedure to take to help you. If you can’t breathe, the doctor will give you some oxygen through a mask which will alleviate the problem until they do further assessments.
- If you have had breathing problems for a long time, take it seriously. Make an appointment and see your GP. There is a chance that you could have a chronic problem.
Causes of Breathing Problems
Unexpected and fast breathing is a result of one of the following conditions:
A condition in the lungs or airways
- An asthma attack is one of the main causes of breathing problems. In this case, the airways become constricted and start to create more phlegm. This causes a person to cough more and you might notice a wheezing sound when breathing in and out.
- The doctor might encourage you to use a spacer in addition to an inhaler which will help you breathe easier and open the airways.
- Pneumonia or selling of the lungs can also lead to shortness of breath. Antibiotics are required as this is normally caused by an infection.
Heart Problems
- You might have a heart attack and not even know it since there are no apparent signs. You may feel anxious and have chest pain though. Breathing problems may be the only obvious symptom that someone may be having a heart attack.
- If you or your doctor suspect a possible heart attack, you will be given aspirin to thin your blood and be admitted to the hospital immediately.
Panic attack
- Anxiety or a panic attack is another condition that can cause breathing issues. This is also known as hyperventilating as the person tries take very deep breaths.