Symptoms
Learn about common respiratory and lung-related symptoms, their possible causes, diagnosis, treatment and when to seek medical attention.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea, is the uncomfortable feeling of not getting enough air or having difficulty breathing. It may occur during physical activity, at rest, suddenly, or gradually over time, and can be caused by lung, heart, or other medical conditions.
Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is a cough that persists for several weeks or longer. It may be caused by respiratory conditions, allergies, asthma, acid reflux, infections, medications, or other underlying health problems.
Wheezing
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when you breathe, usually because the airways have become narrowed or inflamed. It can be associated with asthma, COPD, respiratory infections, allergies and other airway conditions.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is discomfort, pressure, tightness or pain felt in the chest. It can have many causes, including respiratory, heart-related, digestive and musculoskeletal conditions, and some causes require urgent medical assessment.
Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)
Coughing up blood, known medically as hemoptysis, means bringing up blood or blood-stained mucus from the lower respiratory tract when coughing. It can have several causes, ranging from respiratory infections to more serious lung conditions and requires medical evaluation.
Coughing With Phlegm (Productive Cough)
Coughing with phlegm, also called a productive cough, is a cough that brings mucus or sputum up from the airways. It commonly occurs with respiratory infections, bronchitis, asthma, COPD and other conditions affecting the lungs and airways.
Persistent Cough
A persistent cough is a cough that continues for several weeks or longer. It may be caused by conditions such as asthma, allergies, acid reflux, infections, smoking, or other respiratory diseases. A persistent cough should be evaluated when it does not improve or is associated with other concerning symptoms.
Dry Cough
A dry cough is a cough that does not produce mucus or phlegm. It may occur due to allergies, respiratory infections, asthma, acid reflux, airway irritation, or other underlying conditions.
Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing, also called shortness of breath or breathlessness, is the feeling of not getting enough air or having trouble breathing normally. It can occur with respiratory conditions, heart problems, infections, anxiety, or other medical conditions.