Shortness of breath—medically known as dyspnea—is the feeling that you can’t get enough air into your lungs. It can feel like chest tightening, breathlessness, air hunger, or even a sense of suffocation. Whether it comes on suddenly or gradually worsens, it can be alarming and often points to an underlying medical condition—especially when not tied to exertion, high altitude, or temperature extremes.
At Heart & Vascular Clinic, our board-certified cardiologists provide comprehensive evaluation and advanced testing to identify the cause of your shortness of breath and deliver the right care—fast.
Shortness of breath often relates to your heart or lungs, as these systems work together to deliver oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. The most common acute (sudden) causes include:
If your symptoms are chronic (ongoing), possible causes include:
Our team uses a variety of noninvasive tests to determine the root of your symptoms, including:
If you experience sudden or unexplained shortness of breath, especially with chest pain, dizziness, or swelling in your legs, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may signal a serious cardiac event.
If your symptoms are more gradual but persistent, early evaluation can prevent long-term complications and lead to effective treatment.
Our team at Heart & Vascular Clinic is here to help you breathe easier. We proudly serve patients in Newark, Wilmington, and Middletown, DE with expert diagnostics and personalized cardiovascular care.
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