Shortness of Breath

Diabetes is a growing problem in the United States, with more than 30 million people already diagnosed and another 84 million considered prediabetic. At Sure Medical Care, Hertzel Sure, MD, helps his patients in Elmhurst, New York, better manage the chronic condition and avoid the potentially serious complications that are associated with diabetes. For experienced diabetes care, call or set up an appointment using the online scheduler.

Shortness of Breath Q & A

FAQ

Shortness of breath, which is also called dyspnea, can be a frustrating and scary condition to deal with. While the term “shortness of breath,” may seem obvious as to what the condition brings on, this term includes:

 

  • Tightness in your chest
  • The inability to get enough air
  • Shallow breathing

 

Shortness of breath can come on gradually or come and go depending upon your activity level. Everyone experiences shortness of breath from time to time, such as when you exert yourself, but if you’re experiencing ongoing problems that don’t seem to improve, it’s time to get in to see Dr. Sure.

If your shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain, fainting, or nausea and vomiting, you should seek medical help straight away.

There are several culprits that can lead to shortness of breath, chief among them:

 

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Respiratory infections
  • Heart failure
  • Obesity
  • Lung cancer

 

All of these conditions require medical care, especially if your shortness of breath occurs alongside any of the following:

  • Swelling in your lower extremities
  • Difficulty breathing at rest or lying down
  • Fingertips or lips that turn blue
  • Wheezing or whistling when you breathe
  • Fever and chills

 

These additional symptoms point toward some very serious health conditions that should be treated at Sure Medical PC.

If you’re experiencing persistent shortness of breath, Dr. Sure reviews your symptoms to gain a clearer picture of the problem. He will also turn to X-rays to get a closer look at your airways and lungs and use a spirometer to measure your lung capacity.


These noninvasive diagnostic tools allow Dr. Sure to identify the underlying cause of your shortness of breath so that you can get the treatment you need.

The answer to this question depends upon Dr. Sure’s diagnosis. His primary goal is to help you breathe easier, which he can usually accomplish through spot medications, such as bronchodilators. Once your breathing is restored to normal, he works to address the underlying problem with a treatment plan that’s tailored to your diagnosis and medical history.

 

To remedy your shortness of breath issues, call Sure Medical Care, or request an appointment using the online scheduling tool.