Treatment for Shortness of Breath

Helping Patients in Paris, Greenville and Beyond Receive Necessary Oxygen

Shortness of breath, or feeling “winded,” is also known as dyspnea. It occurs when you struggle to draw a full breath. It can feel like you have recently run a sprint or a completed a strenuous activity, even if you have not. The feeling of not being able to get sufficient air into the lungs might persist if you are experiencing shortness of breath.

Symptoms include a tight sensation in the chest, feeling the need to breathe more quickly, or feeling like you cannot get enough oxygen.

Potential causes of dyspnea include:

• Asthma
• Anxiety
• Pneumonia
• Allergic reactions
• Anemia
• Blood loss
• Heart failure
• COVID-19
• Low blood pressure
• Collapsed lung
• Hiatal hernia

Signs You Should Seek Treatment for Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can be a sign of various underlying health issues. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience the following signs:

• Sudden Onset: If you experience a sudden and unexplained onset of shortness of breath, especially if it is severe, seek immediate medical attention.

• Persistent Shortness of Breath: If shortness of breath persists or worsens over time, it may indicate an underlying health concern that requires evaluation.

• Associated Chest Pain: Shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain or discomfort could be a sign of a heart or lung condition.

• Rapid Breathing: Breathing significantly faster than usual, especially at rest, may be a cause for concern.

• Blue Lips or Fingertips: Cyanosis, indicated by bluish discoloration of the lips, fingertips, or skin, suggests a lack of oxygen and requires immediate medical attention.

• Wheezing or Stridor: Audible wheezing or stridor (high-pitched sound) while breathing may indicate respiratory issues.

• Difficulty Breathing During Activity: If you struggle to breathe during routine activities, it could be a sign of respiratory or cardiovascular problems.

• History of Heart or Lung Conditions: Individuals with a history of heart or lung conditions should be vigilant for any new or worsening shortness of breath.

If you experience any of these signs, it is important consult with a healthcare professional promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Quality Care ER can help, stop by today.

How We Treat Shortness of Breath at Quality Care ER

Because shortness of breath can be due to a wide variety of health issues, the first step we will take is to identify the underlying cause and prevent it from occurring in the future. Once we determine the cause, we will work with you to create a treatment plan. This might include helping recommend lifestyle changes that will alleviate symptoms. If a lung condition or a health issue like COVID-19 is causing shortness of breath, we will work to identify and treat the condition as well as help you manage symptoms in the future.

If you are experiencing shortness of breath, call us at (903) 417-0886 or visit our emergency room center in Paris, Texas. You can also reach out Greenville office by calling (903) 307-0544.