Learn about the causes of Breathing Disorders & find a practitioner in Auckland, Hamilton, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin to help you overcome Breathing Disorders within New Zealand.
Breathing disorder is an umbrella term for any condition associated with the respiratory system, from colds and asthma to emphysema and pneumonia.
Causes of breathing disorders
Breathing disorders are characterised by difficulty with breathing while awake or asleep. There is a variety of causes for breathing disorders and these include:
Symptoms of breathing disorders
There are common signs and symptoms that someone has a breathing disorder. These include:
Difficulty breathing
– breathing can be difficult or painful with conditions such as asthma
but may only be intermittent. Persistent breathing problems occur in
people with conditions such as emphysema and can interfere with eating
and talking.
Mucus –
excessive mucus can develop in people with breathing disorders such as
allergies and bronchitis. People with lung infections such as pneumonia
may have a build up of thick mucus which causes congestion. Mucus that
runs down the throat can result in a sore throat or hoarse voice.
Phlegm
– chronic bronchitis or COPD can cause a feeling of something being
stuck in the throat. This is a build up of phlegm which can be cleared
by coughing and is usually yellow/green in colour.
Pain – someone
with asthma or COPD may experience chest pain during or after physical
activity or at times of emotional stress. Pain can also be felt when
taking a deep breath.
Wheezing
– asthma and emphysema sufferers find they may wheeze when walking or
climbing stairs or even while sitting. Stress, humid conditions and
pollution can worsen wheezing.
Diagnosis of breathing disorders
In the first instance you should visit your GP who will ask about your symptoms, lifestyle choices (e.g. smoking) and take a look at your medical history. To make an accurate diagnosis the GP may refer you for a series of tests. These can include:
*Source: GoToSee.co.uk