Exertional dyspnea and Shortness of Breath
Exertional dyspnea has been reported as a symptom associated with Shortness of Breath in medical literature. Learn what this association means, other symptoms of Shortness of Breath, and the tests providers may use to investigate it. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
What does exertional dyspnea have to do with Shortness of Breath?
In the medical literature, exertional dyspnea is one of the symptoms reported in association with Shortness of Breath. This means people with Shortness of Breath may experience exertional dyspnea, but it does not mean exertional dyspnea always indicates Shortness of Breath - it can have many other causes.
A feeling of being unable to catch your breath or get enough air, which can be sudden or gradual.
Tests used to investigate Shortness of Breath
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Shortness of Breath.
BNP / NT-proBNP
Measures B-type natriuretic peptide to help evaluate heart failure....
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Other symptoms of Shortness of Breath
These symptoms are also reported in association with Shortness of Breath.
Breathlessness When Lying Flat
Difficulty breathing when lying flat that improves when sitting up, which can be a sign of heart failure....
Chest Tightness
A feeling of pressure, squeezing, or tightness in the chest, which can be related to heart, lung, or muscle co...
Dyspnea
Difficult or labored breathing. Dyspnea is a subjective feeling only the patient can rate, e.g., on a Borg sca...
Wheezing
A high-pitched whistling sound associated with labored breathing....
Frequently Asked Questions
Can exertional dyspnea be a sign of Shortness of Breath?
Exertional dyspnea is among the symptoms reported in association with Shortness of Breath in medical literature. Symptoms vary widely between individuals, and exertional dyspnea can occur for many reasons unrelated to Shortness of Breath. This information is educational, not a diagnosis.
What else can cause exertional dyspnea?
Exertional dyspnea can be associated with many conditions beyond Shortness of Breath. Explore the exertional dyspnea page to see a broader list of reported associations. Always discuss your symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.
Which tests may be used if Shortness of Breath is suspected?
A healthcare provider may order tests such as BNP / NT-proBNP, CBC with Differential, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) when evaluating Shortness of Breath. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.