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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Medical Symptoms > Shortness of Breath: Symptoms & Signs
      Category : Health Centers > Respiratory System (Lungs and Breathing)

Shortness of Breath

Alternate Names : Dyspnea, Trouble Breathing, Difficulty Breathing, SOB

Shortness of Breath | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Doctors often ask about several things when a person has shortness of breath. These questions may include:

  • when the condition started
  • whether it came on suddenly or gradually
  • whether it occurs at rest or only during activity
  • whether it is worse when lying down or sitting up
  • how many pillows the person sleeps with
  • whether the person has any history of heart or lung disease
  • whether the person has any other symptoms, such as fever, cough, swelling in the legs, chest pain, or anxiety
  • whether anyone in the family has shortness of breath
  • whether or not the person smokes
  • Other questions may be asked, based on the answers to these questions.


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    Shortness of Breath: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

     

    Shortness of Breath: Diagnosis & Tests

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Date Reviewed: 08/20/01









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    Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009