What are the possible causes of sudden shortness of breath?
Disease description:
My mother-in-law suddenly felt short of breath, but we are unsure what caused it. Could you please tell us what are the possible reasons for sudden shortness of breath?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Sudden shortness of breath can be caused by poor air circulation, extreme tension or anxiety, bronchial asthma, allergic reactions, myocarditis, and other factors.
1. Poor air circulation: When in an enclosed or poorly ventilated environment, the oxygen supply to the body may be affected, leading to sudden shortness of breath.
2. Extreme tension or anxiety: Intense emotional fluctuations may stimulate the nervous system, causing rapid or irregular breathing, which can lead to a feeling of being short of breath.
3. Bronchial asthma: Bronchial asthma is a common respiratory disease, with symptoms including chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. An asthma attack may lead to sudden shortness of breath.
4. Allergic reaction: Exposure to allergens may trigger allergic reactions such as itching skin, swelling of the throat, and difficulty breathing. Severe allergic reactions may cause narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms of shortness of breath.
5. Myocarditis: Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart muscle. It may lead to myocardial hypoxia and impaired heart function, resulting in symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.
When such symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo comprehensive examinations to identify the exact cause and receive targeted treatment.
