What is the medical term for shortness of breath?

The medical term for shortness of breath is dyspnea. This term specifically refers to the sensation of difficult or labored breathing and can be a symptom of numerous medical conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues. It is important for health professionals to recognize and assess dyspnea as it can indicate an underlying health problem that may require treatment.

In this context, hypotension refers to low blood pressure, which is not directly related to breathing difficulties. Asthma is a condition that can cause dyspnea, but it is not synonymous with the term itself; it is a specific respiratory disease characterized by bronchoconstriction and inflammation of the airways. Apnea, on the other hand, describes a temporary cessation of breathing, which is different from experiencing shortness of breath. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why dyspnea accurately describes the experience of shortness of breath.