Shortness of Breath: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor

Shortness of breath has many potential causes:

  • Lung conditions: Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, lung cancer.
  • Heart conditions: Heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, valvular disease, pericarditis.
  • Other medical conditions: Anemia, obesity, diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney/liver disease, neuromuscular disorders.
  • Medications: Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics.
  • Environmental factors: Air pollution, high altitude, cold weather.

Seek medical evaluation to determine cause and receive appropriate treatment.

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