Shortness of Breath

Overview

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is the feeling of difficulty breathing or not getting enough air. It may occur during physical activity, at rest, or while lying down. While it can result from respiratory issues, shortness of breath is also a key sign of cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or valve disorders.

At Cardiology Care NYC, we assess shortness of breath to determine whether it is related to a heart condition and create an appropriate treatment plan.

Causes

Shortness of breath related to cardiovascular health is often due to reduced oxygen delivery or inefficient heart function.

Cardiac-related causes may include:

• Heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythm)
• Aortic or mitral valve disorders
• Hypertension-related strain on the heart

Other contributing factors may include anemia, obesity, stress, or deconditioning, which can also affect breathing and circulation.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath can present in different ways depending on severity and underlying cause.

Common signs include:

• Difficulty breathing during activity or minimal exertion
• Shortness of breath while lying flat (orthopnea)
• Waking up at night gasping for air (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea)
• Feeling unable to take a full breath
• Chest tightness or discomfort with breathing
• Rapid breathing or fatigue with mild activity

Seek immediate medical attention if shortness of breath is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, or fainting.

Diagnosis

At Cardiology Care NYC, diagnosis focuses on identifying cardiovascular causes through careful assessment and diagnostic testing.

Diagnostic steps may include:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm
• Echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure and pumping function
• Stress testing to assess breathing and heart performance during activity
• Holter monitoring to detect arrhythmias
• Chest imaging or vascular ultrasound when necessary
• Comprehensive cardiovascular screening

Treatment

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cardiac cause, relieving breathing difficulties, and improving overall heart and lung function.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Engage in moderate, guided physical activity
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Follow a heart-healthy diet
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Manage stress and ensure adequate sleep

Medications

Depending on the root cause, medications may be recommended to:

• Improve heart function
• Control blood pressure
• Reduce fluid buildup
• Manage arrhythmias
• Support better oxygenation and circulation

Ongoing Care

Routine follow-up ensures treatment effectiveness, helps control contributing conditions, and reduces the risk of recurrence or progression.

When To See A Doctor

Schedule a consultation if you experience:

• Shortness of breath during routine activities
• Breathing difficulty that disrupts sleep
• Persistent fatigue or chest discomfort with breathing
• Swelling in the legs or ankles alongside breathlessness
• A progressive decrease in physical tolerance due to breathing issues

At Cardiology Care NYC, we provide comprehensive assessment and care to identify the cause of shortness of breath, restore comfort, and protect long-term cardiovascular health.