lung and airway disorders
Shortness of Breath
Treatment of Shortness of Breath
Treatment of dyspnea is directed at the cause. People with a low blood oxygen level are given supplemental oxygen using plastic nasal prongs or a plastic mask worn over the face. In severe cases, particularly if people cannot breathe deeply or rapidly enough, breathing may be assisted by mechanical ventilation using a breathing tube inserted in the windpipe or a tight-fitting face mask. Morphinemay be given intravenously to reduce anxiety and the discomfort of dyspnea in people with various disorders, including a heart attack, pulmonary embolism, and a terminal illness. 