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

There are many possible causes of shortness of breath, including:

* Lung conditions:

* Asthma

* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

* Pneumonia

* Pulmonary embolism

* Interstitial lung disease

* Lung cancer

* Heart conditions:

* Heart failure

* Coronary artery disease

* Arrhythmias

* Valvular heart disease

* Pericarditis

* Other medical conditions:

* Anemia

* Obesity

* Diabetes

* Thyroid problems

* Kidney disease

* Liver disease

* Neuromuscular disorders

* Medications:

* Certain medications, such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics, can cause shortness of breath.

* Environmental factors:

* Air pollution

* High altitude

* Cold weather

In some cases, shortness of breath can be a sign of a serious medical condition. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.