Shortness of breath when climbing stairs may be an alarm signal. A he althy body should not tire of this type of effort. Shortness of breath is an alarm signal that must not be underestimated.

Shortness of breath with intense exercise, running or cardio exercises should not surprise anyone. On the other hand, shortness of breath when climbing stairs does, especially when it appears suddenly. Usually, a reduction in exercise tolerance, and getting tired quickly, especially during everyday activities, not occasional ones.

Shortness of breath when climbing stairs - what does it mean?

Shortness of breath, i.e. the aforementioned reduction of tolerance to light effort, may be a very early symptom of respiratory system diseases (dyspnea) and cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure.

Shortness of breath can also be a harbinger of asthma, but it is usually accompanied by wheezing and tightness in the chest. However, chest tightness is a symptom of not only respiratory problems, but also heart problems. The resulting pain may be due to interstitial pulmonary edema as a result of cardiac ischemia.

Shortness of breath and wheezing may also indicate the development of COPD, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Different types of shortness of breath

There are different types of shortness of breath, but three of them should be most disturbing:

  • shortness of breath combined with a lack of drawing in air, with a constant feeling of hypoxia. This type indicates heart failure or pulmonary embolism;
  • shortness of breath combined with a feeling of distension in the lungs, inability to take a deep breath. This could be a sign of distension of the lungs due to asthma or COPD. It can also be a symptom of pulmonary fibrosis;
  • shortness of breath, palpitations, panic, fear for life - these are the symptoms of a panic attack.

Dyspnoea and condition

Shortness of breath may also be a completely innocent sign of a deterioration of the condition. This applies to people with sedentary work, people with little mobility, not doing any sports or even walking the dog. You should consider whether the shortness of breath is caused by this reason and try to change it.

Of course, tests are recommended to diagnose the causes of breathlessness. You need to start with the advice of your GP, who will refer you for further tests. Perhapsit will be necessary to perform spirometry outside the basic tests.

Category:

Respiratory system