When Is Shortness of Breath a Sign of a Medical Problem?
If the shortness of breath is prolonged and persistent, it is likely to be related to a medical condition. If it is sudden and severe in intensity, even if it is of short duration, however, it may warrant medical evaluation. The following are other clues of existence of a medical problem. • Shortness of breath at rest • Shortness of breath with activity or exercise • Shortness of breath when lying down • Shortness of breath on exposure to allergens or provoking agents • Shortness of breath accompanied with: • Chest pain or chest discomfort • Discomfort or pain in 1 or both arms, pain radiating to jaw, or pain in the neck • Swelling in ankles and feet • Fluid weight gain or unintentional weight loss with loss of appetite • Unusual fatigue • Sweating • Yellow, green, or rusty colored sputum or phlegm or blood in the sputum • Fever • Wheezing or whistle-like sounds with breathing • Persistent, chronic cough • Blue discoloration of lips or fingertips • Fainting, dizzy spells, lightheadedne
