Dyspnea is the medical term that is used to describe shortness of breath.
This can cause pain and discomfort to the people who are suffering from this condition.
One way to measure shortness of breath that is usually used in almost all medical settings is the visual analog scale.
In this scale, number 1 to 10 represents level of breath in which 1 equals to no shortage of breath while 10 means severe shortage of breath.
Any substances that interfere with normal breathing can result to high oxygen or high carbon dioxide level in the body.
The body is required to balance both of these gases in order for the body to function properly.
The best way to treat any shortness of breath is to know first what is causing it.
There are some tests that can be done to treat and monitor dyspnea.
Chest X-ray may be done to check for collapse, tumor, lungs, infection and fluid in the lungs.
A blood test may be done to check for infection and anemia.
If heart is suspected to be the problem, electrocardiogram may be advised.
Measuring oxygen level in the blood can also be done.
Oximeter can be used to measure the oxygen saturation in the venous blood.
Arterial blood gas test is a more accurate test that can also be done to measure the oxygen level in blood.
Unlike oximeter, it is invasive and can be painful.
If the cause is still unknown after various tests, pulmonary function test or scans may be done.
Shortness of breath is a complex symptom that is affected by environmental, psychological, social and physical factors.
Shortness of breath can be due to asthma, anaphylaxis, chest injuries, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, carbon monoxide poisoning, congestive heart failure, pneumonia, collapsed lung, pulmonary embolism, heart attack, hyperventilation syndrome and many others.
Environment can affect the perception of dyspnea.
Living in a small room with full of people with no air circulation can intensify your shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath can also come from abrupt demand for oxygen due to stress and exercise.
There are two types of dyspnea.
Acute dyspnea is a type of dyspnea that has sudden onset.
It is usually considered as medical emergencies.
Individual with this condition may be given oxygen therapy and medications.
Chronic dyspnea is another type of dyspnea.
Lifestyle changes, diet modification, stress management, and herbal and medication can be used for treatment.