hengitysvaikeusoireyhtymä

Hengitysvaikeus, known medically as dyspnea, is the subjective sensation of difficult or uncomfortable breathing. It is a common symptom that can arise from a wide variety of underlying causes, ranging from benign conditions to severe medical emergencies. Individuals experiencing dyspnea may describe it as shortness of breath, breathlessness, or a feeling of not being able to get enough air. The sensation can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, wheezing, or a rapid heartbeat.

The causes of dyspnea are broadly categorized into respiratory, cardiac, and non-respiratory/non-cardiac conditions. Respiratory causes include common ailments like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism. Cardiac causes often involve heart failure, where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs. Non-respiratory and non-cardiac causes can include anemia, anxiety or panic attacks, obesity, and severe allergic reactions.

Diagnosing the cause of dyspnea typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and often diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, electrocardiograms (ECG), blood tests, and pulmonary function tests. Treatment is directed at the underlying cause. For example, bronchodilators may be used for asthma or COPD, diuretics for heart failure, and antibiotics for pneumonia. In cases of severe dyspnea, immediate medical attention is crucial, and oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation may be necessary to support breathing.