What Causes Intermittent Shortness Of Breath?

Hi, Intermittent shortness of breath or gasping for air can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the common causes include: * Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Feeling anxious or experiencing a panic attack can cause shortness of breath and a feeling of being unable to breathe properly. This can often be relieved by relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, or therapy. * Asthma: Asthma is a respiratory condition that causes the airways to narrow, making it difficult to breathe. It can cause intermittent episodes of shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. * Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. * Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. * Heart Conditions: Certain heart conditions, such as heart failure or a heart attack, can cause shortness of breath. This is because the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, causing a buildup of fluid in the lungs. * Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and causing shortness of breath. * Anemia: Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. This can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness. * Obesity: Obesity can put extra strain on the lungs and heart, leading to shortness of breath. * Smoking: Smoking can cause damage to the lungs and airways, leading to shortness of breath. For intermittent shortness of breath, see a healthcare provider and they can perform tests to determine the cause. Seek medical attention immediately. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician