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Shortness of Breath

31 December 2023

As we grow older, our respiratory system becomes less flexible, and problems associated with the respiratory system become more prevalent. Shortness of breath is manifested in several ways, such as a dry cough, wheezing, and accelerated breathing, and it may cause a sensation of fatigue and chest pressure.

The different causes of shortness of breath are:

  • Poor physical fitness
  • Allergy
  • Anxiety
  • Pneumonia
  • Asthma
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, including emphysema, and chronic bronchitis

If you are coughing up blood, if you have a high temperature not responding to a fever reducer, if you have a substantial shortness of breath, chest pain, or a sudden and considerable difficulty swallowing, urgently get a medical checkup.

In old age, our respiratory system becomes less flexible, and shortness of breath is a well-known phenomenon. Shortness of breath can be due to various reasons, and it is essential to diagnose its source to treat the problem and prevent complications. Shortness of breath may cause a sensation of fatigue and chest pressure and may be manifested in several ways:

  • Dry cough
  • Wheezing
  • Rapid breathing

Why do I have trouble breathing?

  • Poor physical fitness: Many older people do not exercise, and their physical fitness is damaged, which may cause shortness of breath during daily activities. Any physical activity, even a mild one, is better than none. Therefore, it is advisable to combine regular exercises with your daily routine. Further information about physical activity for older adults
  • Allergy: Allergy can be triggered by several causes, the most common are dust mites, seasonal allergies, and animal fur. Ask your family doctor for a referral for a sensitivity test, and according to the results, you can avoid being exposed to an allergen or receive proper treatment, in line with your doctor’s instructions
  • Anxiety: Getting older may be accompanied by emotional challenges considering the numerous changes that occur during this stage in life: retirement, loss of friends and even a spouse, etc. These difficulties may cause considerable stress, pressure and anxiety which may trigger a shortness of breath. If you suffer from these strong sensations, do not stay on your own, and seek help as soon as possible. It is possible and essential to treat anxiety. Further information about older age anxiety
  • Pneumonia: Pneumonia may develop among people who catch a virus or a bacterium, and it is usually accompanied by a high fever. Pneumonia can lead to serious complications, and in extreme conditions, even death. One of the most common bacteria causing pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae, and you can protect yourself against it by getting vaccinated with a simple vaccination. Further information about the vaccination protecting you from pneumonia
  • Asthma: A common illness which can be simple. However, in some cases, according to the frequency and type of attacks, it may, in fact, impair your quality of life. If you have asthma, it is essential that you attend your pulmonologist’s regular follow-ups and adhere to the prescribed medical treatment
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This is a group of illnesses, the most common of which are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. These illnesses cause panting after a mild effort, persistent cough, and phlegm. Chronic bronchitis may also cause fever and weakness. The main cause of all these illnesses is smoking. Therefore, it is important that you refrain from smoking, even if you have already been smoking. Further information about smoking cessation
  • Heart diseases: Various heart diseases, such as heart failure or a cardiac episode, may cause respiratory problems. Therefore, if you suffer from breathing difficulties and the root cause has not been found, you may be referred for cardiovascular examinations. Further information about common older age heart diseases

When to get an urgent medical check-up

  • If you are coughing up blood
  • If you have a high fever that does not respond to fever reducers
  • If you suddenly develop a substantial shortness of breath or severe chest pains
  • When you have a sudden difficulty swallowing

How to reduce the risk of getting lung and respiratory diseases

  • Incorporate physical activity in your daily routine, and perform exercises that help strengthen your pulmonary function
  • Stop smoking: it is never too late to quit smoking
  • Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Exercises to be done at home
  • Try to avoid seasonal illnesses:
  • Stay away from people with seasonal illness
  • Wash your hands before meals and each time you come home
  • Get a flu vaccination and other vaccinations recommended by your family doctor