HEALTHY TIP - Nov. 2, 2009

Don't ignore breathing difficulties. Breathing difficulty could be signs of many conditions such as allergies, asthma, pneumonia, lung disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is no standard definition of breathing difficulty, because people will experience it differently, which may include breathlessness, wheezing, rapid breathing or blockage. Although some difficulties may be nasal congestion due to colds or sinus problems, if your breathing difficulties are new, worsen or you experience any of the following, you should seek medical care as it could be a more serious problem.

• Chest discomfort, pain, or pressure
• Shortness of breath after only slight exertion or while at rest
• Shortness of breath that wakes you up at night or requires you to sleep propped up to aid breathing
• Wheezing
• Having inhaled or choked on an object (foreign object aspiration or ingestion)
• Tightness in the throat or a barking, croupy cough
• Development of a fever or significant cough

Speak with your doctor if you experience breathing problems. Click here for help making an appointment.  

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