Suggest Treatment For Shortness Of Breath And Chest Pain

Posted on Sun, 19 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 19 Jun 2016 Answered on

Tue, 12 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My dad is 94. for the last few months he is experiencing shortness of breath. He breaths short rapid breaths and can walk okay for about 20 feet and has to stop because of it sshallow rapids breathing. He chest has a small pain with this. when he sleeps now his leg muscles jerk. I am visiting after seeing him a month ago.

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
He might have a failing heart!

Detailed Answer:
HI and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this difficulty your dad has. I have reviewed his symptoms and this seems suggestive of a failing heart. Has he had diabetes? Hypertension? Is he having swollen legs? These are possible causes and symptoms of heart failure which often manifests with inability to carry our effort demanding physical activities. I will suggest that he gets his heart checked by a cardiologist to establish the exact nature of his heart function and manage accordingly.

I hope this helps. I wish him well. Feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar