Shortness of breath in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is shortness of breath?

It is the feeling of not getting enough air or that breathing takes more effort than normal. It can start suddenly or build over time, and occur at rest or only with exercise. It is a symptom that always deserves attention.

When is it an emergency?

If it starts suddenly or is severe, comes with chest pain, blue lips or nails, confusion, fainting, or you cannot speak in full sentences. In children, if they breathe very fast, the ribs or neck pull in, they have nasal flaring, grunting or are very lethargic. In all these cases, call your local emergency number or go to the emergency room.

What can cause it?

Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, bronchiolitis or croup in children, severe allergies, heart disease, blood clots in the lungs, anemia, obesity, anxiety or panic attacks, and poor fitness. In children, also an inhaled foreign object.

How is persistent breathlessness investigated?

With a medical exam, oxygen saturation, chest X-ray, spirometry, blood tests and, depending on the case, ECG, echocardiogram or exercise testing. Pulmonologists and cardiologists are usually involved.

Find shortness of breath specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find pulmonologists, pediatric pulmonologists, cardiologists and general practitioners. Compare profiles and book your appointment. In an emergency, go to the emergency room.