Most people can relate to feeling like you can’t catch your breath or tightness in the chest when exercising or with environmental changes such as extreme hot or cold temperatures. In some instances, shortness of breath can be normal, but if it becomes severe, limits your activities or doesn’t go away it may be time to see your doctor.
Shortness of breath or dyspnea can be caused by several things including:
- Physical exertion
- Stress or anxiety
- Asthma
- Lung diseases including emphysema
- Heart disease
There are several tests that may be used to diagnose the cause of shortness of breath. The tests can vary by the type and suspected cause. Some of the tests may include:
- Pulmonary function tests
- Chest x-ray
- EKG, echocardiogram, or other heart tests
- Bronchoscopy
- Blood tests including arterial blood gas
- CT scan of the chest
Treatment for shortness of breath depends on the underlying cause, and severity.
For more information about shortness of breath or to schedule an appointment, contact your primary care provider or call Gundersen Lutheran Pulmonary at (608) 775-2791 or (800) 362-9567, ext. 52791.