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At Ally Medical ER, our emergency physicians assess breathing issues quickly to determine what’s causing the problem and how to treat it safely.

“It’s important not to ignore changes in your breathing. Getting checked early can prevent complications and help you stay healthy and active,” Jeremy Kenter, Chief Medical Officer, said.

What Causes Shortness of Breath?

Breathing difficulties can appear suddenly or develop gradually. Common causes include:

• Asthma or COPD  

• Pneumonia  

• Respiratory infections  

• Allergic reactions  

• Panic attacks  

• Heart conditions  

• Blood clots  

• Fluid in the lungs such as with CHF (Congestive Heart Failure)  

• Severe anemia  

Because the causes vary so widely, it’s crucial to pay attention to the severity and onset of symptoms.

When Shortness of Breath Is an Emergency

You should seek emergency care immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing at rest  

• Bluish lips, face, or fingernails  

• Chest pain or tightness  

• Wheezing or gasping  

• Rapid breathing  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Sudden shortness of breath  

• Swelling in your legs 

These may be signs of a serious underlying condition such as a heart attack, asthma flare, pulmonary embolism, or severe allergic reaction.

“Breathing problems can worsen quickly. ER evaluation ensures that patients receive oxygen, medication, or imaging right away,” Jeremy Kenter added.

What to Expect at Ally Medical ER

At Ally Medical ER, our team provides:

• Oxygen support if needed  

• X-rays or CT scans to evaluate the lungs  

• Rapid lab testing  

• Breathing treatments  

• Heart monitoring  

• Immediate medications for asthma, infection, or cardiac issues  

We aim to diagnose and treat the cause quickly, helping patients feel relief as soon as possible.

For more information, visit our services page. 

Related Reads from Ally Medical ER

• CT vs. X-ray vs. Ultrasound: Who Should Consider Each Type of Imaging Test?

• What Qualifies as a Medical Emergency? A Doctor’s Perspective

• Cold, Flu, or RSV? A Guide for Parents During Sick Season