Shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, is something most people experience at some point. It might happen after intense exercise, during high altitudes, or when recovering from a respiratory illness. But when shortness of breath occurs unexpectedly, becomes persistent, or interferes with daily activities, it can be a sign of something more serious, including heart disease.
What Does Shortness of Breath Really Mean?
Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is the sensation of not being able to get enough air. It can feel like:
- Tightness in the chest
- Rapid breathing
- A feeling of air hunger or suffocation
- Difficulty breathing during activity or while lying down
This symptom can come on suddenly or develop gradually. Some people may feel breathless only during physical exertion, while others may struggle to breathe even at rest.
Although shortness of breath is often associated with lung problems, the heart plays a central role in supplying oxygen to the body. When the heart cannot pump efficiently, fluid can build up in the lungs or oxygen delivery may decline, both of which can lead to shortness of breath.
When Is Shortness of Breath Related to Heart Disease?
There are several types of heart conditions that can cause or worsen breathing problems. These include:
1. Heart Failure. When the heart muscle is weakened or stiff and cannot pump blood effectively, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. This may occur:
- During activity or physical exertion
- When lying flat, especially at night
- As a persistent feeling of fatigue and shortness of breath throughout the day
2. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. During periods of exertion, the heart may not receive enough oxygen, which can cause shortness of breath, even in the absence of chest pain.
3. Heart Valve Disease. The heart valves help control blood flow through the chambers of the heart. When they do not open or close properly, the heart may struggle to maintain circulation, leading to symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, or lightheadedness.
4. Arrhythmias. Irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, can reduce the heart’s efficiency and affect how well blood is pumped throughout the body. When the body does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, breathing can feel labored.
5. Pulmonary Hypertension. This condition involves high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. It can result from heart problems and contributes to ongoing shortness of breath.
Signs That Shortness of Breath May Be Heart-Related
If you are experiencing shortness of breath, certain signs may suggest a connection to heart disease:
- Breathlessness that worsens during physical activity
- Difficulty breathing when lying down, relieved by sitting upright
- Waking at night feeling short of breath
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Fatigue or weakness that limits your daily activity
- Chest discomfort, pressure, or palpitations
These symptoms may be subtle at first but tend to progress over time if not addressed.
When to See a Doctor
Shortness of breath should be evaluated if it:
- Comes on suddenly or feels severe
- Persists beyond a few days without improvement
- Interferes with walking, speaking, or resting
- Occurs with chest pain, dizziness, or fainting
- Is accompanied by swelling or weight gain
Even if your symptoms feel manageable, it is important to rule out potential heart-related causes, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or heart disease.
What to Expect During an Evaluation
At Epic Cardiology, we take a thorough approach to uncovering the cause of your symptoms. If shortness of breath is suspected to be related to your heart, your provider may order:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart
- Echocardiogram: Ultrasound imaging that shows how well the heart is pumping
- Stress test: Measures heart performance under physical stress
- Chest X-ray: May show signs of fluid buildup or lung involvement
- Blood tests: Help assess heart function and check for related conditions
These tests help determine whether the issue is related to reduced heart function, poor blood flow, or another cardiovascular concern.
Taking the Next Step
Shortness of breath may seem like a minor inconvenience, but when it persists or occurs with other symptoms, it can be a sign of a more serious issue involving the heart. Early evaluation and treatment can improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.
Epic Cardiology has locations across the Greater Los Angeles area, including clinics that serve Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about services near you.