Why do elderly people suffer from shortness of breath? Could it be a sign of some disease?

Physiological chest tightness and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms in the elderly. Due to the aging and degeneration of cardiopulmonary function and lack of exercise, under normal circumstances, the elderly will have symptoms such as shortness of breath and palpitations after strenuous exercise, which can be relieved by just resting for a while. So what diseases may these symptoms be signs of?

Left heart failure

It is more common in hypertension, coronary heart disease, valvular heart disease, etc. The precursor symptoms are that the person likes to gradually raise the pillow when sleeping, and is often awakened by chest tightness and shortness of breath. Sudden onset of nocturnal dyspnea is a typical symptom of left heart failure. In severe cases, breathing becomes extremely difficult and asthma may occur.

Emphysema

When suffering from chronic respiratory diseases, ventilation is obstructed, leading to enlargement of alveoli, decreased elasticity, and impaired lung function. This is seen in long-term chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, etc., and manifests as difficulty breathing, which is aggravated by the slightest activity, weak coughing, and difficulty in spitting out phlegm. It should be detected early and the infection controlled in time to avoid respiratory failure.

Coronary heart disease

When the coronary artery blood supply is incomplete, the elderly often feel chest tightness and shortness of breath. It is best to have an electrocardiogram in time.

Spontaneous pneumothorax

It is a common and serious complication of bullae, emphysema, and tuberculosis. When sudden severe chest pain and difficulty breathing occur on one side, careful observation can reveal a bulging chest contour and widening of the intercostals. There may be a drumming sound when tapping one side of the chest. At this time, you should avoid severe coughing and get checked in time.

Pulmonary embolism

It is more common in valvular heart disease, lower limb thrombophlebitis, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and artery blockage caused by thrombus detachment after surgery. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or cough, you need to be alert.

In addition, lung cancer, advanced tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, various types of pneumonia, etc. may all have signs of shortness of breath, so do not take it lightly if you experience shortness of breath.