Shortness of breath isn’t always concerning. From intense physical activity and exertion to high altitude and anxiety, anything can cause it. However, in certain cases sudden episodes of breathlessness can indicate asthma attacks or other serious lung or heart conditions. But the question is, how do we know? How do we distinguish between shortness of breath caused by asthma or something more serious, and when exactly should we seek medical attention?
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Akshay Budhraja, Senior Consultant and HOD - Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Aakash Healthcare, Delhi, answers all of the questions.
Also Read: Why Laughing Too Hard Can Trigger Asthma In Some People
Asthma Attack Or Something More Serious: How To Differentiate Between The Causes Of Shortness Of Breath?
Dr Budhraja describes asthma as a chronic respiratory condition characterised by narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. However, breathlessness can indicate a number of medical issues besides asthma, including heart disease, lung illness, and anaemia.
So, how do we differentiate between all of them?
Experts recommend looking for asthma-specific signs like wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing out, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by a peak flow meter reading below 80% of personal best or are triggered by known asthma irritants.
Environmental causes for asthma include dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke," Dr Budhraja shares. Breathlessness caused by asthma can often be managed by avoiding triggers, using specific medications, and living a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, quitting smoking, and eating a nutritious diet.
Other causes, like a heart attack or panic attack, will have different accompanying symptoms, such as chest pain that may radiate to the arm, fear of impending doom, or other signs of poor circulation.
A healthcare professional can perform a lung function test (spirometry) to confirm an asthma diagnosis.
Signs Shortness Of Breath Need Immediate Attention
Shortness of breath may not be cause for concern. However, there are certain signs that may indicate a serious problem. These include:
- Experiencing significant trouble breathing, such as gasping, coughing, or difficulty speaking.
- Chest tightness, as well as pain in the arms, back, neck, and jaw
- Pale, blue, or grey lips or skin, which may be more visible on the palms of the hands
- Confusion
Dr Budhraja says, “Illnesses such as Pulmonary Embolism (PE), pneumonia, and heart problems can mimic asthma symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing, and it is critical to seek a proper diagnosis from a doctor because these are significant medical issues.”
Other illnesses that might be misdiagnosed as asthma include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), vocal cord dysfunction, upper airway blockage, bronchogenic carcinoma and aspiration, which is accidentally breathing food or other matter into the lungs.
Also Read: When Every Breath Feels Like Drowning: What to Do About It
When Should Asthma Patients Visit An ER?
Certain asthma episodes can occur with few warning signs, and they can strike swiftly, resulting in asphyxiation and death. Dr Budhraja warns, “It is critical to remember that really severe, potentially fatal asthma attacks may not include additional wheezing and coughing, rendering such signs unhelpful in determining the severity of asthma attacks.”
In such circumstances, the breathing airways have grown so congested that there is insufficient air flowing into and out of the lungs to create wheezing or coughing. (Wheezing can also be a symptom of other serious health concerns, such as a respiratory infection or heart failure, so get medical assistance right away if any of these are suspected.)
Prevention Tips Asthma Patients Should Take
If you or someone you know has asthma, there are a few things that may help prevent flare-ups and avoid complications.
- Educating oneself can help understand the purpose of medications and avoid symptoms.
- Learn how to identify asthma episodes early and when to seek medical assistance.
- Know the triggers
- Do not allow pets inside homes
- Limit outdoor time
- Stay away from tobacco smoke and indoor air pollution
“As part of your asthma action plan, your physician may demonstrate how to use a peak flow meter to monitor your asthma. Keep track of your results. You can compare your numbers over time to ensure that your asthma is under control,” says Dr Budhraja.
He concludes by advising the importance of making a record of any asthma problems you have and taking it along to the next care appointment. Lastly, maintain a healthy lifestyle by reaching out for a balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise, good quality sleep and adequate stress management.