Shortness of Breath

The Key is a Systematic Approach

Shortness of breath is the most common type of difficulty breathing. As people age the number of conditions which can cause this vague symptom grows considerably. Shortness of breath is one of the most distressing feelings and is hard to describe for anyone who has never felt it. Those patients who try to describe it say it’s a feeling of breathing in only half way and then trying as hard as possible to just suck in one more little bit of oxygen. It’s an exhausting feeling and leaves patients with a feeling that life is slipping away which causes anxiety and makes matters worse. 

We are often called to see SNF and ALF residents with new or worsening shortness of breath. Everyone is different. The cause of shortness of breath can be immediately obvious or it can be impossible to determine the exact problem. A systematic approach is the key and insures the right cause and early start to treatment.  Our doctors and specially trained Nurse Specialists can take care of many cases right at the bedside and help avoid hospital transfer and emergency room visits. We are even able to provide advanced 24/7 telemonitoring when needed. Other specialized testing such as EKGs and echocardiograms can also be done right at the facility. 

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