Shortness of Breath: Treatment

Treatment of dyspnea depends on its underlying cause.

Patients with acute dyspnea are given oxygen in the emergency room, with the following treatments for specific conditions:

• Asthma. Treatment with Alupent, epinephrine, or aminophylline.
• Anaphylactic shock. Treatment with Benadryl, steroids, or aminophylline, with hydrocortisone if necessary.
• Congestive heart failure. Treatment with oxygen, diuretics, and placing patient in upright position.
• Pneumonia. Treatment with antibiotics and removal of lung secretions.
• Anxiety attacks. Immediate treatment includes antidepressant medications. If the patient is hyperventilating, he or she may be asked to breathe into a paper bag to normalize breathing rhythm and the oxygen level of the blood.
• Pneumothorax. Surgical placement of a chest tube.

The treatment of chronic dyspnea depends on the underlying disorder. Asthma can often be managed with a combination of medications to reduce airway spasms and removal of allergens from the patient's environment. COPD requires both medication, lifestyle changes, and long-term physical rehabilitation. Anxiety disorders are usually treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. GERD can usually be managed with antacids, other medications, and dietary changes. There are no permanent cures for myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy.

Tumors and certain types of chest deformities can be treated surgically.

— Rebecca J. Frey