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breathing difficulties?

I've had problems lately feeling like I need to stop and take in more air as if I'm not getting enough oxygen. It usually happens during weeks here and there during summer (started last year). I can exercise without SOB. Could this be allergies to what's in the air at times? I am in 50's.

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Yes, it could be allergies or asthma. Sometimes, it can also be related to the environment (such as smells (chlorine), or the level of humidity - this is one that bothers me). Also, like the previous respondent mentioned, you may be unintentionally holding your breathe or not breathing deeping enough. I'm glad you can exercise without shortness of breath. Make a little note on your calendar if you feel like this (and if there is anything significant you can think is occuring at the time). With this info, you (and your dr. --- and I would recommend you mention this to your dr., just in case ... as they know the types of questions to ask to determine the originating source of your breathing issue.) can see if there is a pattern or relevance to something else, so the matter can be appropriately treated, if necessary.

    I hope you're feeling better.

    EDIT:

    I'm attaching information from the American Lung Association and the Canadian Lung Association regarding basic info on asthma. At each site, there is considerable information on all types of breathing problems, including those related to ASTHMA and ALLERGIES. If you live in the US, I've also included a link for the ALA's Asthma Clinical Research Centers, as you may be able to get some free help in diagnosing whether or not you have asthma/allergies, and if so, then get some additional free assistance.

    ~~~~~

    American Lung Association-Asthma Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) link: http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=3...

    ~~~~~

    © 2009 American Lung Association.

    KNOW YOUR ASTHMA SYMPTOMS

    - "I cough a lot while I exercise or even when I rest after exercising."

    - "I have shortness of breath."

    - "I make a wheezing sound when I breathe."

    - "I feel a tightness in my chest."

    Do you feel this way sometimes? Any ONE of these symptoms may mean that you have asthma. You can have one or more of these symptoms or even different ones. Symptoms are clues that let you know that you are having an asthma attack. -- http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=2...

    ASTHMA IN ADULTS

    Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Triggers range from viral infections to allergies, to irritating gases and particles in the air. Each person reacts DIFFERENTLY to the factors that MAY trigger asthma, including:

    - respiratory infections and colds

    - cigarette smoke

    - allergic reactions to such allergens as pollen, mold, animal dander, feather, dust, food, and cockroaches

    - indoor and outdoor air pollutants, including ozone and particle pollution

    - exposure to cold air or sudden temperature change

    - excitement/stress

    - exercise

    http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=2...

    ~~~~~

    © 2009 Canadian Lung Association.

    SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ASTHMA

    Different people have different signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma signs and symptoms are also variable - they can change over time or depending on the situation. People with asthma often have ONE or more these symptoms:

    - Wheezing

    - Chest tightness

    - Coughing

    - Feeling short of breath

    Breathing problems can be caused by different conditions. If you have these signs and symptoms, or if you think you might have asthma, see your doctor. It's important for you to go to the doctor for a full investigation of your symptoms. Once your doctor has all the facts, they will be able to make a diagnosis. Then your condition can be properly treated. -- http://www.lung.ca/diseases-maladies/asthma-asthme...

    EXERCISE AND ASTHMA

    Exercise CAN be a trigger for people when their asthma is not under good control. -- http://www.lung.ca/diseases-maladies/asthma-asthme...

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Good Day Connie,

    There is not sufficient information to suggest what the problem(s) may be but I am going to suggest that you try to find out the disorder by ruling out some disorders.

    1. You state that you can exercise without being SOB. This will rule out Asthama, Bronchitis, Allergies, Chest infections, Pneumothorax, and heart failure.

    2. You do not state that you have a cough, or hives, or wheezy breathing. This will rule out allergies and asthma.

    3. You state that you feel like you need to stop and take in more air as if there is not enough oxygen. This symptom seems to suggest exhaustion and tiredness.

    If this is not the case please see a doctor. I feel the this is the full extent of my knowledge. I hope I have answered your question.

    Source(s): RN
  • ?
    Lv 4
    5 years ago

    If your missus has not seen a Dr how have you come to the conclusion she is "having" pneumonia. If you truly believe she is suffering from pneumonia then the only course of action would be to see a Dr. Pneumonia can kill if left untreated. Talk some sense into her!!!

  • 1 decade ago

    Do you need to breathe deeper? I used to get my mind on something and forget to breathe deep enough.

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Ragweed.

  • ?
    Lv 5
    1 decade ago

    yes im sure of that...like mold ragweed pollen etc...have your doc put you on a anihitamine like vistreil..or benadryl

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