Why is there no problem walking on flat ground, but shortness of breath occurs when going uphill?

There is no problem walking on flat ground, but shortness of breath occurs when climbing uphill. This may be due to physiological reasons or pathological conditions such as bronchiectasis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

I. Physiological Causes

This may result from long-term lack of physical activity combined with low food intake, leading to significant physical weakness. Usually, no special treatment is required. Gradually increasing exercise levels according to individual physical condition can improve overall fitness and alleviate symptoms.

II. Pathological Causes

1. Bronchiectasis

This may be caused by factors such as immune deficiency or pathogen infection, resulting in suppurative inflammation of the bronchi and surrounding tissues, leading to bronchiectasis and breathing difficulties. If no other symptoms are present besides breathing difficulty, treatment is generally based on the type of infectious pathogen using appropriate medications. For instance, if caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets, ampicillin capsules, or amoxicillin capsules may be prescribed by a doctor to suppress the pathogen and promote symptom improvement. In severe cases where conservative treatment is ineffective, surgery—such as lobectomy—may be necessary to remove infected tissue and enhance ventilation function.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

This may arise due to genetic or environmental factors causing diseases such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, leading to airflow obstruction in the respiratory tract and resulting in COPD. On the basis of quitting smoking promptly and ensuring a well-ventilated, clean environment, bronchodilators should be used as directed by a physician. Examples include salbutamol sulfate tablets, ipratropium bromide inhalers, and formoterol fumarate tablets, which help open the airways and relieve symptoms.

In addition, this condition could also be caused by heart failure or similar disorders. Implementing targeted treatments based on the underlying cause is beneficial for controlling the disease.