One of the most unpleasant conditions that an individual can experience is shortness of breath or dyspnea. In the emergency room, priority is given to those who experience breathing difficulty since the life of the individual can be at risk if the condition is allowed to worsen. An abrupt dyspnea can be alarming not only for the loss of control and sense of danger, but due to the number of conditions in which dyspnea can be a possible symptom that would require proper assessment.
If an individual is experiencing dyspnea, emergency assistance should be called if it occurs abruptly without any cause or accompanied by symptoms of a heart attack. A doctor should be consulted if the individual starts to experience wheezing or dyspnea after mild exertion, exercise or while at rest. Additional symptoms that would require attention include high fever with chills, ankle or foot swelling and cough. Obesity or not used to exercise are also common causes of dyspnea as well as sudden change in the altitude. It is best that you are prepared to handle this symptom. All you have to do is to register for first aid training today so that you know what to do once this symptom manifests.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can lead to dyspnea. These reactions can include allergies to dander, dust, mold, pollen, insect stings or bites, medications and certain foods. An individual who sustained a sting from a wasp or bee that experiences dyspnea can be considered as a critical condition and would surely require emergency assistance right away.
Respiratory conditions
If the airways in the mouth, nose or throat are obstructed by inhaling a foreign object, it can cause dyspnea. There are also certain respiratory conditions in which shortness of breath is a symptom. It includes bronchiectasis, asthma, anemia, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic sinusitis, interstitial lung disease, emphysema, lung cancer, pleurisy, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary edema, pulmonary fibrosis and tuberculosis.
Heart-related issues
Dyspnea can be an indication of cardiac conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart arrhythmia or congestive heart failure especially if accompanied by prolonged chest pain or pressure, nausea and vomiting as well as fainting. Emergency assistance is required for such conditions to prevent them from worsening.
Mental factors and other possibilities
Dyspnea can be a symptom for those who are suffering from prolonged stress, anger, fear and generalized anxiety disorder. Individuals who are suffering from hiatal hernia can also experience shortness of breath as well as those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Once an individual experiences dyspnea, it is best to have it properly diagnosed by a doctor especially if it occurs abruptly or regularly. The doctor will properly assess the underlying cause responsible for causing the shortness of breath.