What is a Breathing Problem?
A breathing problem is any condition that makes it difficult to draw breath. Breathing problems can be caused by a number of conditions, including asthma, emphysema, pneumonia and bronchitis. Any of these can lead to potentially life-threatening breathing problems, including respiratory failure, which means your body is not getting the oxygen it needs.
Whether you have a breathing problem depends on the symptoms you are having and how they affect your life. If you have shortness of breath just during exercise, you may simply have asthma, or it may be a sign that you need to strengthen your heart and lungs.
If you have shortness of breath at rest or even when walking, it is likely that your breathing problem is more severe and you need to speak with a doctor about getting it treated.
What causes breathing problems?
- Respiratory conditions that can cause breathing problems include:
- Allergies, especially to pollen and smoke
- Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that may include swelling in the throat or difficulty breathing and other symptoms
- Asthma
- Broken ribs from an injury to the chest area
- Bronchitis, an inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs
- Childhood diseases such as croup, measles or pertussis (whooping cough)
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe; this includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
- Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that leads to thickened mucus in the lungs and other organs
Breathing problems can also be caused by anxiety or panic attacks. If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing along with chest pain and symptoms like dizziness or nausea, call 000 right away.
Please note that regular First Aid and CPR Training is the best way to make sure that you’re prepare in the case of an emergency. Book a course with us!
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