Can Cough Cause Shortness of Breath?
November 26, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, coughing can potentially lead to temporary shortness of breath, especially during prolonged or intense coughing fits.
Coughing is the body’s reflex action to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. When coughing persistently or forcefully, it can temporarily affect breathing and lead to a sensation of breathlessness.
Several reasons can explain why coughing might cause shortness of breath:
- Increased respiratory effort: Forceful or prolonged coughing can strain the respiratory muscles and lead to increased efforts in breathing. This increased strain can temporarily impact the ability to breathe comfortably and result in a feeling of breathlessness.
- Reduced lung capacity: Intense coughing episodes may cause a temporary decrease in lung capacity. During coughing fits, the lungs might not fully expand and receive adequate air, leading to a feeling of breathlessness until the coughing subsides.
- Underlying respiratory conditions: In individuals with underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, or pneumonia, coughing can exacerbate symptoms of breathlessness due to the pre-existing respiratory issues.
It’s important to differentiate between temporary breathlessness caused by coughing and persistent or severe shortness of breath that might indicate a more serious underlying condition. If coughing leads to severe or prolonged shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, bluish discoloration of the lips or nails, or other concerning symptoms, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.
Managing coughing-related shortness of breath involves addressing the underlying cause of the cough. If the cough is due to a respiratory infection, allergies, asthma, or another condition, proper treatment directed by a healthcare professional can help alleviate coughing and associated breathlessness.