Breathing Difficulties During Exercise: When to See a Cardiologist

During exercise, the heart may feel like it's struggling to catch its breath?

Hello, Dr.
He: I experience shortness of breath while jogging, and when I squat for a long time, I feel dizzy.
When I stand up, I feel completely weak.
Which department should I visit at a general clinic? Do you have any recommendations for specific tests I should undergo? Thank you!

wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/12

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, do you usually engage in a lot of physical activity? Experiencing shortness of breath while jogging is often due to insufficient training or low lung capacity.
If you feel dizzy after squatting for a long time, it may be worth considering postural hypotension.
You can visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2016/03/12

More Info

Breathing difficulties during exercise can be concerning, and it's important to address these symptoms appropriately. Based on your description, it seems that you experience shortness of breath while jogging, and you also feel dizzy and weak when standing up after squatting for a while. These symptoms can be indicative of various underlying issues, including cardiovascular problems, respiratory conditions, or even anxiety-related disorders.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to see a cardiologist. A cardiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions, and they can perform a thorough evaluation to determine if your breathing difficulties are related to heart function. When you visit a cardiologist, they may recommend several tests, including:
1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test measures the electrical activity of your heart and can help identify any irregularities in heart rhythm or signs of ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart).

2. Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test provides images of your heart's structure and function, allowing the doctor to assess how well your heart is pumping and whether there are any structural abnormalities.

3. Exercise Stress Test: This test involves monitoring your heart while you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike. It can help determine how your heart responds to physical exertion and whether there are any signs of ischemia or arrhythmias during exercise.

4. Holter Monitor: If your symptoms are intermittent, a Holter monitor can be used to continuously record your heart's rhythm for 24-48 hours, capturing any irregularities that may occur during your daily activities.

5. Blood Tests: These may be conducted to check for markers of heart disease, thyroid function, and other potential issues that could contribute to your symptoms.

In addition to seeing a cardiologist, it may also be beneficial to consult with a primary care physician or a pulmonologist (lung specialist) to rule out any respiratory issues that could be contributing to your breathing difficulties. Conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction can also cause shortness of breath during physical activity.

It's also important to consider lifestyle factors that could be influencing your symptoms. For instance, if you have recently increased the intensity or duration of your exercise routine, your body may need time to adapt. Additionally, factors such as dehydration, inadequate warm-up, or exercising in hot and humid conditions can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and fatigue.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe chest pain or discomfort
- Persistent shortness of breath, especially at rest
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
In summary, given your symptoms of shortness of breath during exercise and dizziness upon standing, it is advisable to see a cardiologist for a comprehensive evaluation. They will be able to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle modifications. Remember, early intervention can be crucial in managing any potential health issues effectively.

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