Shortness of breath is commonly associated with heart or lung diseases. Because these two organs move oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide, even small changes in their function can make everyday activities feel harder than usual.
With that in mind, our family medicine specialists in East Chicago, Indiana are going to explain some of the most common reasons you may be feeling breathless.
1. You could be out of breath because you are less active now.
One common reason for feeling winded is that you are less active than before. When you are not as active throughout the day, your lungs and breathing muscles (the diaphragm and intercostal muscles) may not function at full capacity. As a result, even routine tasks can start to feel unusually tiring.
On a related note, obesity can also cause breathing difficulties. Extra body weight increases the workload on both your heart and lungs, so your body is forced to work harder just to move or breathe. Because of that, even seemingly easy everyday activities can suddenly leave you short of breath.
2. A lung disease could be making it harder for you to breathe.
Of course, reduced activity is not the only reason for your breathing difficulties. If your activity level does not explain your symptoms, a lung disease like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be the main problem.
In asthma, the airways narrow and swell, and they regularly produce excess mucus that can cause shortness of breath. COPD, which includes conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, can also trigger flare-ups. These flare-ups can cause thicker mucus, wheezing, more frequent coughing and chest tightness.
3. Heart conditions can also cause breathlessness.
Your heart pumps oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. So, any condition that weakens this function can make you feel winded more easily.
Along with shortness of breath, you may notice swelling in the legs or ankles. This can indicate fluid buildup because the heart is struggling to pump. Unusual fatigue or a feeling of heaviness in the chest can also develop.
Symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, chest tightness and fatigue can all be early signs of heart strain. This is why your family doctor will take them seriously and perform a thorough evaluation if neither activity level nor lung disease seem to explain your symptoms.
Could something else be causing your shortness of breath?
Of course, not all shortness of breath comes from the heart or lungs. Sometimes the cause is something else entirely.
For example, low iron levels (anemia) can affect your blood’s ability to carry oxygen and cause breathlessness. Anxiety and panic can create similar sensations and can appear as chest tightness or a sudden feeling of suffocation.
Other factors like reduced muscle strength, poor sleep, chronic stress, overall deconditioning, nutrient deficiencies and post-viral fatigue can also make you feel winded. Because there are so many possible explanations, a family medicine specialist in East Chicago, Indiana will consider each of these possibilities when evaluating the cause of your breathing difficulties.
How can you make breathing easier starting today?
You don’t need intense workouts to start improving your breathing. Even short walks or some stretching can help your lungs and muscles regain strength. You will find it easier to breathe over time.
You also need to avoid tobacco and secondhand smoke. Alongside that, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep and managing your weight all improve your respiratory health. And because stress can change your breathing patterns and make it more difficult to catch your breath, stress management is just as important.
Simple breathing techniques can also be useful. For example, pursed‑lip breathing can help you regain control when you are suddenly short of breath. Your family medicine specialist in East Chicago, Indiana can teach you the right techniques for your symptoms.
Looking for an affordable family medicine specialist in East Chicago, Indiana?
Are you looking for a qualified family medicine specialist in East Chicago, Indiana who can help you understand and manage your shortness of breath? If so, 219 Health Network is just a call away. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to schedule an appointment with a specialist.