Sinusitis

• Sinusitis is a breathing problem caused by inflamed, congested sinuses and nasal passages. Sinusitis can be an acute or chronic infection. Normally, the sinuses have the ability to defend themselves against bacteria, but if this ability is compromised, bacteria can enter them and stick to the cells lining the sinus cavities.
  
  Although acute sinusitis is often the result of a viral infection in the respiratory tract, allergens can also cause inflammation. A sinus infection often causes a headache and pressure that affects the eyes, nose, cheeks and temples.
  
  

Allergies

• Allergies are a disorder of the immune system, often triggered as a result of environmental causes. Allergens such as dust mites and pollen can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and lungs. When allergens are inhaled, they can cause restriction of the airways, mucus production, headaches and difficulty breathing. Common symptoms include irritation of the nose, sneezing, itching and bloodshot eyes.
  
  

Asthma

• Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the lungs in which the airways or bronchi are narrowed. Asthma attacks are worsened when the bronchi constrict and the airflow is obstructed. Asthma is not reversible, although it can be reduced with proper treatment and episodes may become less frequent over time. Asthma triggers include infection, pollen, dust mites, dander, mold, fragrances, fumes, smoke and airborne pollutants.
  
  Asthma symptoms include wheezing, chest tightness, coughing and shortness of breath caused by restriction of the airways.
  
  

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease makes it difficult to breathe and worsens over time. People with COPD cough excessively, and symptoms include phlegm, wheezing and tightness in the chest. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as with emphysema and pneumonia, there is a decrease in air production. Most people with COPD develop the disease after long-term exposure to lung irritants, particularly cigarette smoke.
  
  

Heart Disease

• If you suffer from heart disease, the heart cannot pump enough blood to the various parts of the body and this can cause you to feel breathless. Heart disease often involves the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, which cuts off adequate blood supply to the heart. Symptoms of heart disease often include shortness of breath, changes in heart rate, weakness, dizziness, nausea and sweating.
  
  

Medical Intervention and Diagnosis

• If you have problems breathing, seek medical attention as soon as possible; this can help prevent long-term damage that may be irreversible. A physician will need to make an accurate diagnosis to develop an appropriate treatment plan. The diagnosis of breathing problems includes pulmonary function tests, breathing tests to determine the air flow of the lungs and chest X-rays.