Singer Monali Thakur, famous for her beautiful songs like ‘Sawaar Loon’ and ‘Moh Moh Ke Dhaage,’ recently had a scary health incident during a live show at the Dinhata Festival in Cooch Behar, West Bengal. While she was performing, Monali suddenly had trouble breathing. This shocked both her fans and the event organisers, as she had to leave the stage quickly and was taken to a hospital for urgent care.
Reports say that Monali felt unwell before the performance. Her health got worse because of back-to-back shows and the stress from travelling by plane. After this incident, it’s important to know the signs of difficulty breathing.
What Are Signs of Difficulty Breathing?
Difficulty breathing is a symptom of respiratory disease, explained Dr Kinjal Modi, Consultant, Pulmonology, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Khar, Mumbai. She further added that it can vary widely depending on the specific condition.
However, difficulty in breathing is a common yet alarming symptom that can indicate a variety of health issues. It can occur suddenly or develop gradually and may range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening emergency. Understanding the signs of difficulty breathing is essential for timely intervention, as it can be caused by conditions affecting the lungs, heart, or even anxiety. Below are common signs of difficulty breathing.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling like you cannot get enough air or struggling to breathe deeply.
- Wheezing: A whistling or musical sound while breathing, often due to narrowed airways.
- Rapid Breathing: An increased number of breaths per minute, signalling insufficient oxygen intake.
- Chest Tightness or Pain: A sensation of pressure or discomfort in the chest.
- Colour Changes: Bluish or pale skin, lips, or nails due to low oxygen levels in the blood.
- Grunting or Stridor: Unusual sounds while exhaling or inhaling, indicating respiratory distress.
- Nasal Flaring: Widening of the nostrils during breathing, especially in children.
- Retractions: The chest sinking in below the neck, under the breastbone, or between the ribs with each breath.
- Sweating: Cool or clammy skin, often accompanying rapid breathing.
- Changes in Alertness: Fatigue, confusion, or drowsiness caused by low oxygen levels.
What To Do If Struggling To Breathe?
If someone is struggling to breathe, they should stay calm and act quickly. According to a study, it is advised to sit upright in a comfortable position to improve airflow and loosen any tight clothing. If they have prescribed medication, such as an inhaler, they should use it immediately. They should focus on slow, deep breaths and avoid any physical exertion.
If their symptoms persist or worsen, they must call emergency services without delay. It is important to ensure their airway remains clear and to monitor their condition until help arrives. Staying calm is essential, as panic can make breathing more difficult.
How To Prevent Respiratory Diseases?
Preventing respiratory diseases requires making some lifestyle changes, and some other changes. According to the expert, below are some simple steps you can take.
- Quit Smoking: Dr. Modi emphasised that quitting smoking is the most important step to prevent respiratory diseases. If you smoke, seek help from healthcare providers, counselling, or smoking cessation programs. Also, avoid places where you might breathe in secondhand smoke.
- Reduce Exposure to Pollutants: Dr. Modi recommended keeping good ventilation in your home and using air purifiers. Stay away from harsh chemicals indoors. On days when air pollution is high, stay inside and wear a mask if needed.
- Practice Good Hygiene: The expert further advises washing your hands regularly with soap and water to stop the spread of respiratory infections. Avoid close contact with sick people and steer clear of crowded places during flu season.
- Manage Allergies: Work with an allergist to find out what allergens trigger your respiratory symptoms. Dr. Modi suggests using prescribed medications to help control these allergy symptoms.
- Exercise Regularly: Staying active through regular exercise can strengthen your respiratory muscles and improve lung function.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Dr. Modi recommends eating nutritious foods to help prevent respiratory diseases. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports your overall health and boosts your immune system.
Conclusion
Difficulty breathing can be a warning sign of respiratory issues or other health problems, so it’s important to take care of yourself. Pay attention to early symptoms and take steps to stay healthy. If you experience any breathing problems, it is always advised to consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance and treatment.