Feeling a little out of breath after running or climbing several floors quickly is normal. But if you get breathless during everyday activities, such as walking at a normal pace, climbing one flight of stairs, or carrying a bag, and this is new or getting worse, it should not be dismissed as “just age” or “being unfit”. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains why breathlessness on exertion needs a check-up.

Why it matters. Breathlessness on exertion is often the earliest sign of a lung or heart problem. Because it develops slowly, many people unknowingly adjust by walking slower or avoiding stairs, and come to the doctor only when the disease is advanced. Early diagnosis allows treatment to start while the lungs and heart are still in better condition.

Common lung causes:

• COPD, especially in smokers or people exposed to chulha smoke or workplace dust
• Asthma, sometimes with wheezing, cough or chest tightness
• Interstitial lung disease (lung fibrosis), with a dry cough and gradually worsening breathlessness
• Lung damage after past TB
• Pulmonary hypertension (high pressure in the lung blood vessels)

Other causes: heart problems such as heart failure or reduced blood supply to the heart, anaemia (low haemoglobin), obesity, thyroid disorders and kidney disease. Breathlessness on exertion can sometimes be the only sign of a heart problem, especially in people with diabetes.

Tests that help find the cause. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may advise:

• Pulmonary Function Test (PFT / spirometry) to measure how well your lungs work
• Oxygen level (SpO₂) check at rest and during walking, and a six-minute walk test
• Chest X-ray or HRCT chest to look at the lungs in detail
• ECG and echocardiography to check the heart
• Blood tests for haemoglobin, thyroid and sugar

Seek emergency care immediately if breathlessness comes on suddenly, occurs at rest, or comes with chest pain, bluish lips, fainting, coughing up blood, or swelling of the legs.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com