Reliable Tests to Determine Cause of Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is an alarming condition and can be life-threatening. Fortunately, various tools exist to determine the cause of breathlessness. If you are experiencing shortness of breath in Otsego, you can visit Gather Well for tests. With many COVID-19 patients exhibiting the symptom, how soon you seek help can be the difference between life and death.
What is the reason for shortness of breath?
Shortness of breath is an issue that causes difficulties in breathing, making you feel as if you cannot get enough air in your lungs. Some of the common symptoms of shortness of breath include:
- Breathlessness due to a tedious exercise or a medical condition
- Air hunger
- A tightening sensation in your chest
- Wheezing when inhaling
- Difficulty breathing
Shortness of breath is a common symptom of certain illnesses and its severity depends on the underlying cause.
Which conditions can cause shortness of breath?
Several conditions may cause difficulty in breathing. You may experience shortness of breath after strenuous activity or exercise due to an inadequate supply of oxygen to your lungs. Extreme weather conditions can also cause shortness of breath. Breathlessness that occurs unexpectedly under normal weather conditions could highlight a symptom of the following medical issues:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD)
- Pneumonia
- Obesity
- A heart condition
- Anxiety issues
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Pulmonary edema caused by an accumulation of fluid in your lungs
Shortness of breath is also a signature symptom of the new COVID-19 virus. Acute dyspnea develops suddenly, while chronic dyspnea is characterized by labored breathing for an extended period. Chronic dyspnea is commonly associated with terminal illnesses and heart conditions. The skilled team at GatherWell Rapid COVID-19 Testing recommends that you should seek medical attention to prevent related complications if you experience prolonged difficulties in breathing.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a severe respiratory illness caused by a new strain of virus known as SARS COV-2. The most common symptom of coronavirus is shortness of breath that causes chest congestion. COVID-19 is also associated with the following symptoms:
- Muscle aches
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Fever
- Chest congestion
- Persistent chest pain
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Dry cough
Coronavirus can also cause loss of taste or smell. If left unattended, the symptoms may deteriorate, causing respiratory failure, which may put your life in jeopardy. You may also require immediate hospitalization and oxygen therapy. The risk of advanced coronavirus symptoms increases with age, making older people more vulnerable to respiratory failure.
Why should you get tested for COVID-19 if you have shortness of breath?
Shortness of breath is the main symptom of COVID-19. The team at GatherWell Rapid COVID-19 Testing recommends that you should get tested if you experience shortness of breath along with the other symptoms caused by the disease. It is also recommended that you take a test if you happen to contact a COVID-19 patient.
Shortness of breath is an uncomfortable condition that may result in chest pain and congestion or may be a symptom of the new and scary COVID-19. Contact GatherWell Rapid COVID-19 Testing or book an appointment online to clear your doubts for your peace of mind.
