Recognising Shortness of Breath and Chronic Cough: When to Consult a Doctor - Dr Pragati Rao D

Chronic respiratory illnesses continue to be a growing health challenge in India. According to recent study, around 55 million people are living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while about 33 million suffer from asthma .

These illnesses account for a significant share of health problems across the country, worsened by factors like air pollution, tobacco use, and exposure to indoor smoke. The impact is very high especially in northern and central regions, where environmental and socioeconomic conditions create sharp disparities.

These statistics emphasize the importance of recognizing early symptoms like shortness of breath and chronic cough and getting proper medical consultation promptly. Dyspnea is a condition where a person feels they cannot breathe with ease. It can occur as a feeling of tightness in the chest, heavy, troubled or rapid breathing, or wheezing.

Although feeling breathless during physical exercise is normal, new or worsening breathing problems, especially in a state of rest or while performing everyday tasks like walking or climbing stairs, should not be ignored.

Similarly, chronic cough, which is persistent coughing for over a week whether dry or with mucus, often points to conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or heart and lung diseases. Watch for how long symptoms last and how often they happen, along with other signs like chest pain, wheezing, tiredness, or coughing up blood. When symptoms persist or get worse, see a healthcare provider promptly.

Doctors use physical examination along with tests like spirometry, chest X-rays, and bloodwork to find the cause. Getting diagnosed early means treatments can slow disease progress, improve lung function, and cut down hospital stays.

However, despite the availability of such effective therapies, many COPD patients in India remain undertreated, showing clear gaps in healthcare access and knowledge.

Long lasting feeling of breathlessness and a chronic cough can root from many causes, which includes COPD, asthma, repeated lung infections, and heart problems like congestive heart failure.

Environmental pollution also adds to these contributors. Looking at India, apart from smoke from tobacco, exposure to, smoke from biomass fuel, agricultural dust, and the city air pollution can significantly contribute to respiratory issues. Children and the elderly who are at higher risk of complications due to weak immune systems need extra care.

Knowing when to seek medical advice is important. Consult a doctor if you experience:

• Shortness of breath that worsens, occurs at rest, or with minimal exertion

• A cough persisting beyond a week

• Wheezing or high-pitched breathing sounds

• Chest tightness, discomfort, or pain when breathing or coughing

• Coughing up blood or frequent chest infections

• Fatigue or decreased capacity to perform daily routine activities because of breathing problems

These signs warrant timely evaluation for the diagnosis of serious conditions and the institution of appropriate treatment.

Persistent shortness of breath and a chronic cough may reveal a serious hidden respiratory or heart condition. As these conditions become more common in India, along with environmental risk factors and healthcare gaps, greater awareness and early interventions are critical.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment can help avoid complications, improve quality of life, and decrease the overall impact of chronic respiratory diseases If you or a loved one notice these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Your health deserves expert attention, seeing qualified healthcare professionals ensures you get proper care and treatment suited to your needs.

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