14 Health Problems That Could Cause Shortness of Breath - AARP COPD is an umbrella term for lung conditions, including emphysema, that cause swelling and irritation inside airways, making it harder for air to flow through the lungs Smoking is the most common cause, and asthma increases the risk Along with shortness of breath, symptoms can include coughing, wheezing and bringing up mucus
Shortness of breath Causes - Mayo Clinic Most cases of shortness of breath are due to heart or lung conditions Your heart and lungs are involved in transporting oxygen to your tissues and removing carbon dioxide, and problems with either of these processes affect your breathing Shortness of breath that comes on suddenly (called acute) has a limited number of causes, including:
Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath): Causes, Symptoms Treatment What health conditions cause shortness of breath (dyspnea)? Heart or lung disease and other conditions can cause shortness of breath Lung and airway conditions Asthma Allergies Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Respiratory illness (like bronchitis, COVID-19, the flu or other viral or bacterial infections) Pneumonia
Shortness of Breath: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Shortness of breath, clinically known as dyspnea, is sometimes described as difficulty catching your breath, wheezing, or breathlessness The causes of shortness of breath range from very strenuous exercise and extreme temperatures to obesity and higher altitude