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Understanding Shortness of Breath: Cardiac Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnoea, can be concerning and may sometimes be related to heart conditions. Recognising cardiac causes, understanding symptoms, and knowing when to seek help are crucial for timely treatment.
What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath occurs when you feel like you are not getting enough air. While it can result from lung conditions or anxiety, heart-related causes can be life-threatening and require prompt attention.
Cardiac Causes of Shortness of Breath
- Heart Failure: When the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, fluid may build up in the lungs, causing breathlessness, especially when lying down or during physical activity.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle can cause shortness of breath, sometimes with chest pain (angina).
- Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms can reduce the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, leading to breathlessness.
- Heart Valve Problems: Faulty valves can disrupt blood flow, leading to fluid build-up in the lungs and breathing difficulties.
- Cardiomyopathy: Disease of the heart muscle affects pumping efficiency, potentially causing shortness of breath.
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the lining around the heart may cause breathing issues, often accompanied by chest discomfort.
Recognising Cardiac-Related Shortness of Breath
Common signs that breathlessness may be heart-related include:
- Difficulty breathing when lying flat
- Waking up at night feeling short of breath
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Fatigue with minimal exertion
⚠️ Emergency Signs: Seek urgent medical attention if shortness of breath occurs with:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Blue lips or face
- Severe dizziness
These could be signs of a heart attack or life-threatening condition.
What Should You Do?
- Seek Immediate Care for Emergencies: Call 999 in the UK for severe or sudden shortness of breath, especially with chest pain or fainting.
- Consult Your GP: For persistent or unexplained breathlessness, especially with a history of heart disease.
- Monitor Symptoms: Note when shortness of breath occurs (e.g., at rest or during activity) and any accompanying symptoms.
Tests and Treatments
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Checks for abnormal heart rhythms.
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to assess heart structure and function.
- Chest X-ray: To detect fluid in the lungs.
- Blood Tests: To check for signs of heart failure or anaemia.
- Exercise Stress Tests: Evaluate how the heart performs during physical exertion.
Treatment Options
- Medications: Such as diuretics, beta-blockers, or ACE inhibitors for heart failure.
- Procedures: Angioplasty, valve repair, or pacemaker insertion, depending on the underlying cause.
- Lifestyle Changes: Managing blood pressure, quitting smoking, and adopting a heart-healthy diet.
Recovery and Self-Care
- Rest and Gradual Activity: Balance rest with gentle exercise as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Follow Medication Plans: Never stop prescribed medications without consulting a doctor.
- Monitor Symptoms: Report any worsening breathlessness, weight gain, or swelling to your GP.
Final Thoughts
Shortness of breath linked to heart conditions can be serious. Understanding the cardiac causes and knowing when to seek help are essential. If you experience sudden or severe shortness of breath, don’t wait — dial 999 immediately.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with concerns about your health.