What Causes Shortness Of Breath On Exertion?

Posted on Tue, 25 Oct 2016

Question: I am a 63 year old female with Celiac disease - probably since birth due to early symptoms and diagnosed 7 years ago - interstitial cystitis and Hashimotos Thyroiditis. I have had a few tests that have shown antibodies for Schleroderma but saw a specialist both times and was retested negative. I have been short of breath more than normal of late and although I have linear scarring of both lungs which has caused an issue with exercise since I was in my twenties, I am wondering if there might be a connection to my having repetitive antibodies for Scleroderma. I just like to keep ahead of things!

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Get done 2d echo and HRCT thorax.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
By your history and description, you are having auto immune diseases in your system.
Shortness of breath on exertion is commonly seen with auto immune diseases.
This is mostly due to pulmonary hypertension and Pulmonary fibrosis.
So better to consult pulmonologist and get done 2d echo, HRCT thorax and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) for the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension and Pulmonary fibrosis.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

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