Breathing Disorders

What are breathing disorders?

Any chronic condition that interferes with normal breathing can be considered a breathing disorder. That covers a wide range of health issues, some of which are more serious than others. 

Some examples of breathing disorders include:

• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Shortness of breath 
• Pneumonia
• Neuromuscular disorders 
• Sleep apnea

You may also have breathing problems after recovering from COVID-19.

Some conditions don’t show symptoms in the earliest stages, which is why it’s important to schedule routine physical exams to better understand your overall health condition. 

How are lung conditions diagnosed?

When you rely on Respacare, you can rest assured you’re in the best of hands. The practice offers numerous state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that can help get to the bottom of your breathing difficulties. 

The process starts with a face-to-face discussion with a provider about your symptoms and overall health history. A quick exam follows, including a check of your current breathing function. 

Blood testing can be helpful in some situations, and X-rays or other imaging offers a chance to check your airways for clear signs of impeded airflow. Lung function tests help your specialist assess your breathing, and an echocardiogram provides a glimpse of heart function, which is often related to breathing problems. 

What can I do to prevent breathing disorders?

Many breathing problems stem from lifestyle choices, and there’s a lot you can do to reduce your risk of developing a breathing disorder. Making meaningful lifestyle changes even after a diagnosis can help you move through treatment easier and reduce your reliance on drug therapy. 

If you are overweight or obese, losing weight is one of the most impactful changes you can make. Carrying excess pounds places a huge toll on your body, from your bones to your heart and lungs. People who are extremely overweight often struggle to breathe normally because their chests are under undue pressure. 

Even if you are a healthy weight, finding ways to incorporate more healthy physical activity into your daily routines can help prevent breathing problems or improve issues like shortness of breath. Be sure to check with a specialist before dramatically increasing your physical activity level, and consider having a stress test at Respacare to ensure your body is ready to handle more exercise. 

If you smoke, finding a way to quit for good is a great way to help you breathe easier. Smoking affects many of your body’s organs and systems, especially the lungs. Fortunately, studies show you can regain much of your breathing function in the months and years after you quit. 

For more information about breathing disorders and treatment options like pulmonary rehab, call Respacare to book a visit today, or spend a few moments booking online.