Labored
Labored refers to a type of breathing that is strenuous, difficult, or heavy. It is often a symptom of various medical conditions, including respiratory diseases, heart diseases, and neurological disorders. Labored breathing can be a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Causes of Labored Breathing[edit | edit source]
Labored breathing can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Asthma: A chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways, causing difficulty in breathing.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe.
- Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid.
- Heart failure: A condition in which the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, causing shortness of breath.
- Pulmonary edema: A condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs, which can result in difficulty breathing.
Symptoms of Labored Breathing[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of labored breathing can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Wheezing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Treatment of Labored Breathing[edit | edit source]
Treatment for labored breathing depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
- Medications: Such as bronchodilators for asthma or diuretics for heart failure.
- Oxygen therapy: To help ensure the body gets the oxygen it needs.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to treat the underlying condition causing labored breathing.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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