Shortness of Breath: Symptoms & Signs (Dyspnea, Trouble Breathing, Difficulty Breathing, SOB)

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Alternate Names : Dyspnea, Trouble Breathing, Difficulty Breathing, SOB

Doctors often ask about several things when a person has shortness of breath. These questions may include:

when the condition started

whether it came on suddenly or gradually

whether it occurs at rest or only during activity

whether it is worse when lying down or sitting up

how many pillows the person sleeps with

whether the person has any history of heart or lung disease

whether the person has any other symptoms, such as fever, cough, swelling in the legs, chest pain, or anxiety

whether anyone in the family has shortness of breath

whether or not the person smokes

Other questions may be asked, based on the answers to these questions.

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Shortness of Breath: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors		Shortness of Breath: Diagnosis & Tests

Author: Adam Brochert, MD
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 08/20/01

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