Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)

Dyspnea is the subjective sensation of difficult, uncomfortable, or labored breathing out of proportion to exertion level. It indicates a mismatch between respiratory motor command and sensory feedback from lungs, chest wall, and chemoreceptors.

• Pulmonary: Bronchial Asthma, COPD, Pneumonia, Pulmonary Embolism, Interstitial Lung Disease.
• Cardiovascular: Congestive Heart Failure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Arrhythmias, Valvular Disease.
• Systemic: Severe Anemia, Metabolic Acidosis (Diabetic Ketoacidosis), Anxiety/Hyperventilation.

Call emergency services if dyspnea comes on suddenly, prevents speaking, causes blue lips, or occurs with chest pain. Consult a physician promptly if breathing worsens when lying flat (orthopnea) or wakes you up at night gasping for air (PND).