What Causes Shortness Of Breath On Exertion?

Posted on Tue, 4 Feb 2014

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

Tue, 4 Feb 2014 Answered on

Sat, 1 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I faced issue like short breathing 2.5 yrs back and was treated for asthma of initial stage.. I feel relaxed but now again when I use stairs or rush to some place, I feel tired, exhausted and short breathing .. Need suggestions to cure it or some preventive measure?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Shruti Rijhwani (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer: Follows. Detailed Answer: Dear Sir, Thank you for posting your query on XXXXXXX Well looking into your problem I would like to tell you that what symptoms you are saying are not of exclusively of asthma . Feeling shortness of breath on exertion can be due to variety of reasons , even lack of stamina can make you feel this way . You will need to get a pulmonary functions test done to assess the condition of the lung . A chest X ray and ECG will also be required if your treating doctor feels so .In your case physical examination is very important to auscultate the chest which will give us a clue regarding the disease . You will need to see a physician or pulmonologist in person for this . Till then avoid smoking and pollution . Breathing exercises specially yoga will be very beneficial for increasing the lung compliance . Try to do aerobic exercises half an hour at least 5 times a week . Take care. Dr. Shruti

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Shruti Rijhwani (26 hours later)

I learnt that generally aerobics is done to loose weight . I am already almost under wait. so kindly suggest me what kind of aerobics should I do and also guidance on diet.. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Shruti Rijhwani (21 hours later)

Brief Answer: Follows. Detailed Answer: Dear Sir, Thank you for reverting back. Well its only purpose is not to lose weight it also increases the lung compliance , any type of aerobics , you can do it .For your disease there are no dietary restrictions . You can eat whatever you want but if there is any food stuff that you feel precipitate it like peanuts etc . you should avoid it . Dr. Shruti

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