​Breathing Difficulty

There can’t be any sensation more frightening than not being able to get enough air. Although shortness of breath — medically known as dyspnea — is likely to be experienced differently by different people, it's often described as an intense tightening in the chest or feeling of suffocation. Depending on the cause, you may experience shortness of breath just once or have recurring episodes that could become constant.

Various activities such as very exhausting exercise, extreme temperatures, massive obesity and high altitude - all can cause shortness of breath in a healthy person. Outside of these examples, shortness of breath is likely a sign of a medical problem. If you have unexplained shortness of breath, especially if it comes on suddenly and is severe, see your doctor as soon as possible.

When to seek expert advise

• Shortness of breath, especially if it comes on suddenly

• Trouble breathing or a feeling of suffocating (dyspnea)

• Making a wheezing or gasping sound while breathing

• Coughing out blood

• Difficulty in breathing along with sweating profusely

• A blue or grey tone to your skin

• A drop in blood pressure along with light-headedness, dizziness, weakness or sweating​

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