shortness of breath blood test explained

Overview

Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea (dis-NEE-uh), is the uncomfortable feeling that you cannot get enough air. A blood test can help your doctor find out why you are short of breath. The test checks for signs of infection, heart strain, anemia (low red blood cells), or problems with oxygen levels.

Yes, shortness of breath is a very common symptom that can happen for many reasons, from a panic attack to a serious illness.

Anyone can feel short of breath, but it is more common in people with lung or heart conditions, older adults, and those who smoke or are overweight.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling winded after mild activity
• Tightness in your chest
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• A feeling that you cannot take a deep breath

Symptoms in children

• Rapid breathing or flaring nostrils
• Grunting sounds when breathing out
• Difficulty feeding or sucking
• Unusual tiredness

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or disorientation
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Less interest in daily activities due to feeling winded

Causes

Main causes

• Lung problems like asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), pneumonia, or a blood clot in the lung
• Heart problems such as heart failure or a heart attack
• Anemia (low red blood cells) which reduces oxygen in the body
• Anxiety or panic attacks

Risk factors

• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Obesity or being overweight
• High blood pressure or heart disease
• Family history of lung or heart conditions

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you suddenly cannot catch your breath
• If you have chest pain or discomfort
• If your lips or nails turn blue

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you feel short of breath during everyday activities
• If the feeling has been going on for days or weeks
• If you have swelling in your ankles or legs

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, listen to your heart and lungs, and order one or more blood tests to help find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Complete blood count (CBC) – checks for anemia or infection
• B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) – checks for heart strain
• D-dimer – helps rule out blood clots
• Arterial blood gas (ABG) – measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood

What to expect at your appointment

A healthcare professional will take a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. You might feel a quick pinch. The results usually come back in a few hours to a few days, depending on the test.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what the blood tests reveal. The goal is to address the underlying cause so you can breathe more easily.

Self-care at home

• Stay as active as you can, but pace yourself
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Practice deep breathing or pursed-lip breathing techniques
• Maintain a healthy weight

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend inhalers or other medications for lung conditions, medicines to help the heart pump better, iron or other supplements for anemia, or oxygen therapy. Always follow your doctor’s advice about any treatments.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for shortness of breath. It may be considered only in very specific conditions, such as severe heart valve problems or advanced lung disease, and only after careful evaluation.

Living with this condition

Learn what triggers your breathlessness and plan your activities around it. Take rest breaks, and use breathing techniques when you feel winded.

Lifestyle tips

• Quit smoking – it is the single most helpful step you can take
• Stay active with gentle exercises like walking or swimming
• Avoid extreme temperatures and lung irritants like dust or strong fumes

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit salt if you have heart problems. Gentle exercise, such as a short walk, can strengthen your lungs and heart over time.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Shortness of breath can cause anxiety and make you feel scared. This is normal. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage stress, and consider joining a support group or seeing a counselor.

Prevention

Not all causes can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by not smoking, staying active, and keeping your heart and lungs healthy.

Vaccines

Getting vaccinated against flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 can help prevent infections that might cause shortness of breath.

Screening programmes

Regular check-ups with your doctor can catch problems early. If you have a family history of heart or lung disease, talk to your doctor about what screening might be right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• Low oxygen levels that can affect your heart and brain
• Worsening of the underlying condition, such as heart failure or lung disease
• Increased risk of falls or accidents due to feeling faint

Long-term outlook

The outlook is often good once the cause is found and treated. Many people see great improvement with the right care. Working closely with your healthcare team can help you manage symptoms and live a full, active life.

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