Shortness of breath can occur suddenly and can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from mild to severe. Although not always dangerous and can sometimes go away on its own, shortness of breath should not be taken lightly, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as a high fever.
Shortness of breath is a condition characterized by difficulty breathing or the sensation of not getting enough air. Shortness of breath can make sufferers feel uncomfortable and restless
In order for proper treatment to be carried out, it is important to first identify the various things that can cause shortness of breath.
Various Causes of Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be caused by various things, such as exercising too hard or being in an area with a certain height. However, if shortness of breath is caused by a health problem, here are some conditions that can cause it:
- Have a cold
- Allergy
- Asthma
- Anemia
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Sinusitis
- Tuberculosis
- Low blood pressure
- Broken ribs
- Carbon monoxide poisoning, or inhaling too much helium gas
- Pneumonia or wet lungs
- Pneumothorax
- Lung cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Heart problems, such as heart failure, heart attack, or cardiac arrhythmias
Of the various conditions mentioned above, a common cause that often triggers shortness of breath is asthma. Shortness of breath caused by asthma usually lasts in the long term or is known as chronic.
Shortness of breath is also often experienced by people with stomach ulcers. In certain conditions, shortness of breath needs to be watched out because it can be a symptom of a heart attack.
Finding out the Cause of Shortness of Breath
To find out the cause of the shortness of breath that is felt, you should consult a doctor so that he can get an examination. The following are several types of examinations to determine the exact cause of shortness of breath experienced:
blood test
Blood tests can be done to detect possible shortness of breath caused by infections, whether viral, bacterial, or fungal. In addition, allergy testing using a blood sample can also help doctors determine the cause of shortness of breath.
As mentioned above, the most common cause of shortness of breath is asthma, but the biggest trigger for asthma is allergies.
Spirometry test
A spirometry breathing test is done to find out how much air you can exhale and how fast you exhale. This test will be very helpful in diagnosing shortness of breath due to asthma.
Imaging test
Imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, are used to describe the condition of the lungs, heart, and bones. Thus, doctors can detect if there is a disturbance in these organs.
PCR Check
Currently, examination using the PCR method is also recommended, especially if your shortness of breath is suspected as a symptom of COVID-19 infection
Knowing the exact cause of the emergence of shortness of breath is an important thing to do, because the results will be a guide for doctors to determine the right and effective treatment.
How to Overcome Shortness of Breath
Treatment for shortness of breath generally depends on the cause. The following are some treatments that can be done to overcome shortness of breath:
1. Avoid sources of allergies
If you experience shortness of breath due to asthma or allergies, the thing you need to do is to avoid allergens or allergy triggers, such as dust, cigarette smoke, air pollution, pet dander, or pollen.
In addition, as much as possible, always keep the house clean so that it is free from dust, fleas, or mites to prevent the recurrence of allergy symptoms.
2. Administration of drugs
Medications, such as decongestants and antihistamines, can also be used to treat shortness of breath due to allergies. If complaints do not improve, the doctor may suggest treatment using inhaled corticosteroids.
Inhaled drugs can also be given to patients with sinusitis. As for people with asthma, drugs can be given by inhalation or drink.
The purpose of drug administration is to relieve or prevent airway obstruction and excessive mucus production. If you use inhaled medication, always make sure it is in adequate supply and the device is working properly, in case you need it during an asthma attack.
3. Live a healthy lifestyle
Running a healthy lifestyle can also help you overcome shortness of breath, such as exercising regularly and quitting smoking. Quitting smoking is known to launch the respiratory tract.
In addition, by quitting smoking, you can reduce the risk of various serious diseases, such as heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Following a diet or exercising is also known to overcome shortness of breath, especially in conditions of shortness of breath due to obesity.
To avoid shortness of breath when at high altitudes, avoid doing strenuous activities when in a place with an altitude of more than 1500 meters.
For those of you who experience shortness of breath due to a serious illness, direct treatment and care by a doctor and consumption of certain drugs needs to be done. Always consult with your doctor about what treatment is right for your condition.
Immediately go to the emergency department at the nearest hospital or consult a doctor if your shortness of breath is accompanied by other symptoms, such as high fever, chills, cough, and swelling of the legs, especially if the color of your lips starts to turn blue and your shortness of breath gets worse.