Breathing problems can result from a variety of illnesses and medical conditions. Breathing problems may be as minor as mild shortness of breath or as severe as respiratory failure. Problems may come on suddenly or develop over time. Breathing difficulties affect people of all ages, but the elderly and babies have the highest risk of complications.
Considerations
Certain breathing problems may occur more frequently during the winter months. Conditions such as respiratory syncytial virus, which can cause breathing problems in young children, are most common in the colder months. Pneumonia and flare-ups of emphysema, both of which cause breathing problems, also increase in the winter months. Problems with breathing may also occur more frequently with increased elevation.
Causes
Many conditions can cause breathing problems. Chronic respiratory conditions that may result in breathing difficulties include emphysema, cystic fibrosis and chronic bronchitis. Acute illnesses that often cause breathing difficulties include asthma and pneumonia.
Respiratory conditions are not the only cause of breathing problems. Heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure, can also be a cause. Trauma to the part of the brain that controls breathing can also cause breathing problems.
Symptoms
In addition to feeling short of breath, other signs indicate that a person is having breathing problems. Using accessory muscles to assist with breathing is referred to as retraction. Nasal flaring is also a sign of breathing problems, especially in young children. Wheezing may also be present. Some people with breathing difficulties may feel chest tightness and have a rapid respiratory rate.
Treatment
Treatment for breathing problems vary depending on the underlying cause. For instance, breathing problems caused by heart trouble may require heart surgery. Medication, such as steroids---which decrease inflammation in the lungs---may help breathing problems caused by asthma or emphysema. Bronchodilators can also help open the airways and improve breathing. Oxygen eases breathing problems in some people.
Complications
Breathing problems can lead to serious complications. If problems are severe enough, respiratory failure can occur. A person who is struggling to breathe may tire out and eventually stop breathing. Emergency treatment is then needed, such as inserting a tube to assist with breathing. The person then needs to be put on a respirator until the condition has improved.
Prevention
Not all breathing problems are preventable. However, some breathing problems can be prevented. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the chances of breathing difficulties such as sleep apnea, as well as conditions that lead to breathing difficulties, such as congestive heart failure. Reducing exposure to allergens such as mold may reduce breathing problems, and, of course, quitting smoking can also help eliminate breathing difficulties.
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