Causes of Difficulty in Breathing Across Organ Systems
1. Respiratory System
- Airway: Asthma, COPD, obstruction.
- Lungs: Pneumonia, fibrosis, ARDS.
- Vascular: Pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hypertension.
- Pleura: Effusion, pneumothorax.
2. Cardiovascular System
- Heart failure: Left/right-sided.
- Ischemic heart disease: Angina, myocardial infarction.
- Arrhythmias and valvular disease.
- Pericardial effusion/tamponade.
3. Hematologic System
- Anemia, carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Neuromuscular and Skeletal
- Neuromuscular disorders: Myasthenia gravis, ALS.
- Chest wall deformities: Kyphoscoliosis, obesity hypoventilation.
5. Gastrointestinal
- GERD, aspiration, abdominal distension.
6. Endocrine and Metabolic
- Thyroid disorders: Hyper/hypothyroidism.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis, electrolyte imbalances.
7. Psychiatric
- Anxiety, panic disorder, somatic symptoms.
8. Miscellaneous/Systemic
- Sepsis, shock, anaphylaxis, high-altitude sickness.