What is Shortness of Breath?
Shortness of breath is defined as a feeling of difficulty in breathing and not getting enough air. This condition, whose medical name is dyspnoea, may occur especially during exertion and limit the daily activities of the individual. Therefore, it is important to determine the underlying cause of shortness of breath and to measure this complaint.
Causes of Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be associated with various health problems or physical conditions. In most cases, it is caused by respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure and lung diseases. Shortness of breath can also be influenced by factors such as anaemia, overweight, lack of physical fitness and psychological conditions.
Shortness of breath in the elderly and its symptoms
Shortness of breath is more common with age, because the respiratory system changes with age. Respiratory rate and depth decrease in the elderly, which may trigger shortness of breath. Strain, anxiety and fatigue, especially during exercise, are common symptoms in older people.
Psychological breathlessness
Psychological factors also play an important role in shortness of breath. Conditions such as anxiety and depression can increase the feeling of breathlessness and force the person to breathe more deeply. This can lead to a vicious circle of shortness of breath and anxiety.
Home Remedies for Shortness of Breath
Some natural solutions that can be applied at home for shortness of breath are as follows:
- You can relieve breathing by making tea from herbs such as lavender, eucalyptus, mint and hibiscus.
- Quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet also help to relieve shortness of breath.
Shortness of Breath Treatment and Precautions
The most important step in the prevention and treatment of breathlessness is to adopt a regular lifestyle. In home care, exercises should be performed to reduce symptoms and support respiratory functions and harmful habits such as smoking should be avoided. Home visits and training by health professionals can improve the quality of life of individuals with shortness of breath.
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