Respiratory distress associated with coughing
When shortness of breath and coughing occur together, this can indicate several things. If there is a constant coughing with difficult breathing up to shortness of breath, this can be a sign of chronic (often obstructive) bronchitis. Dry coughing and shortness of breath, especially at night, can be a sign of asthma. These symptoms can also be present in heart failure. It is therefore important to have a thorough examination by a doctor if the symptoms mentioned above are present, to find out whether and if so, which disease is behind the symptoms.
Respiratory distress associated with tachycardia
When the symptoms of shortness of breath, shortness of breath (dyspnoea) and palpitations (tachycardia) come together, they can have different causes. For example, in the case of a cardiac insufficiency (heart failure), the pumping capacity of the heart is no longer sufficient to maintain the circulation of blood. The resulting backwater causes water to accumulate in the whole body, in the legs and also in the lungs.
With the help of medication, the heart can and must be relieved in case of heart failure. The body also reacts to stress or great fear with an increased heart rate and shortness of breath, often in combination with increased sweating due to increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. This is the part of the autonomic nervous system that mainly controls the bodily functions that bring the human body into an increased readiness to perform.
This complex of symptoms can also occur in triggering acute situations in patients with mental illnesses such as anxiety or panic disorders, during a panic attack, in asthmatics or sometimes “only” during a stronger flu. Frequently occurring shortness of breath, especially in combination with palpitations, chest tightness, chest pain or even unconsciousness should always be clarified by a doctor. Only a doctor can determine whether a heart disease is behind it and how it can be treated.
Respiratory distress associated with dizziness
If shortness of breath and dizziness occur together, they can have different causes. For example, previous hyperventilation (unphysiologically accelerated breathing) can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, muscle cramps and sensations in the extremities. These symptoms are caused by shallow rapid breathing and increased exhalation of CO2. Breathlessness and dizziness can also be caused by cardiac arrhythmia, for example. If the symptoms reoccur or become extremely pronounced, a doctor should be consulted to clarify the symptoms or, if necessary, an emergency doctor should be called.
Respiratory distress associated with back pain
If there is back pain due to severe tension or a blockage in the spine, this can lead to breathing problems or even shortness of breath. In such a case, muscle relaxation, the occasional intake of painkillers, the injection of painkillers into possibly tense areas or a deblocking of the spine can be helpful. However, such experiments should by no means be carried out hastily on their own or taken indiscriminately pain medication. If such back pain is present, an examination should be carried out by a doctor, who will decide on the further course of action.
