The Connection Between Your Heart Health and Shortness of Breath

October 3, 2024

After completing a run, you find yourself desperately gasping for air. Alternatively, even a simple walk from one room to another leaves you breathless. Although these instances of shortness of breath differ significantly, the latter could indicate a grave heart-related problem. 

To assist you in determining whether your shortness of breath is linked to your heart health, Dr. James Kim, a cardiologist, and our team have compiled the following information on this potentially concerning symptom.

Common Causes of Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can typically be attributed to three main causes:

  • Overexertion and exercise
  • Lung problems
  • Cardiovascular conditions

Additionally, mental health issues such as anxiety or panic attacks can also lead to shortness of breath.

Since our practice specializes in cardiovascular health, we will focus on the heart-related conditions that can cause shortness of breath.

Recognizing a Heart Attack

We’ll begin with the most serious heart-related condition that can cause shortness of breath—a heart attack.

Heart attack symptoms can vary, especially between men and women. The most common signs include:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain in your jaw, shoulder, back, or abdomen
  • Excessive sweating
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Heart palpitations
  • Nausea or vomiting

If you suddenly experience shortness of breath along with any of these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Persistent Shortness of Breath

If you’re consistently experiencing shortness of breath and even simple activities like walking up a flight of stairs leave you gasping for air, it could indicate congestive heart failure. This condition makes your heart unable to meet your body’s demands and is often accompanied by leg or abdominal swelling, a persistent cough, and a rapid heart rate.

As congestive heart failure progresses, you may experience shortness of breath constantly, even when lying down.

Another heart-related issue causing shortness of breath is pulmonary edema. If your heart isn’t pumping blood effectively, pressure can build up, causing fluid accumulation in your lungs that fills the air sacs.

Cardiomyopathy, a disease affecting your heart muscle, can also lead to shortness of breath. This condition often comes with other symptoms like leg swelling, dizziness, and heart palpitations.

The bottom line is that shortness of breath is a symptom you should never ignore, especially if it’s not related to physical exertion.

If you’re experiencing shortness of breath and suspect it may be related to your cardiovascular health, contact one of our offices in Chula Vista or National City, California, so we can promptly diagnose and treat the issue.

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Heart Health, Shortness of Breath

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