Dyspnea on exertion is a common phrase used by the medical community to describe shortness of breath when exercising or performing physical activities. This includes strenuous activities, such as working out or participating in sporting event, though it can also be caused by mild physical acts such as walking, going up steps, sitting up, etc.

In some cases, this may be mild and temporary, while in other cases it can cause the patient to feel as if they are running out of air and can’t catch their breath. Those with dyspnea on exertion may feel it with carrying intensities and for different measures of time. As it is a sensation, each person will experience it differently and it may grow more or less intense over time.

Dyspnea on exertion can also cause discomfort or difficulty breathing, chest tightness, gasping for air, a sensation of suffocation, and/or feelings on intense anxiety and fear.

While it is common to experience breathlessness or shortness of breath during exercise (especially if one is not accustomed to it), breathlessness during more simple exertions (such as sitting up, walking, or going up the stairs) may be a sign that there is a greater issue going on with your heart.

In some cases, dyspnea on exertion may be an early sign of heart failure which is why it’s important to consult with your doctor if you start to notice shortness of breath that isn’t normal for you. It may also be indicative of other respiratory, cardiac, and systemic conditions, so getting the proper examinations and testing is key.

Simply put, there is no difference! Dyspnea is the medical terminology used to describe feeling short of breath. In everyday terms, it may also be called chest tightness, air hunger, or simply having to work harder to catch your breath.

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is most commonly a symptom of physical exertion. However, it can also be a symptom of heart and lung problems, asthma, allergies, sickness (such as cold and flue) and even anxiety.

If you’re experiencing frequent dyspnea that can’t be contributed to an explainable cause, or is severe and intense in nature, you should consult with your doctor at your earliest convenience. It may be the early signs of a more serious medical condition.

The treatment for dyspnea on exertion will depend on what, exactly, is causing it. If it’s caused by over-exertion or a temporary ailment, such as a cold, then the breathlessness will typically resolve on its own after adequate rest.

However, if dyspnea on exertion is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as a heart problem, a person may require acute care.  The most common forms of treatment for dyspnea caused by cardiovascular issues include: 

– Angioplasty
– Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors
– Aspirin
– Beta-blockers
– Diuretic medications
– Heparin
– Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
– Implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
– Nitrates
– Pacemakers
– Statins
– Supplemental oxygen
– Surgery

For those with chronic heart conditions, their healthcare provider or heart specialist will work with them to help them breathe and function more easily. This involves developing a comprehensive treatment plan that treats the condition where possible, targets the prevention of acute episodes, and slows down the progression of the disease as much as possible.

If you’re experiencing dyspnea due to a heart condition, or are concerned about your heart health in any way, contact our team at Sterling Heart Care. We strive for the highest levels of preventative and targeted care for your heart condition. Contact us today for more information regarding our dyspnea services or schedule a consultation online. Please feel free to call us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4330 Maple Rd. 1st Floor Buffalo, NY 14226. We serve patients from Buffalo NY, Pine Hill NY, Sloan NY, Kenmore NY, Cleveland Hill NY, and Kaisertown NY.