Differential Diagnosis for Shortness of Breath and Dry Cough
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Asthma: A common condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, often presenting with shortness of breath and dry cough, especially at night or with exertion.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe, often causing shortness of breath and dry cough, particularly in smokers or those with a history of smoking.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs that can cause shortness of breath and dry cough, among other symptoms like fever and chest pain.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs, which can cause sudden onset of shortness of breath and dry cough, often accompanied by chest pain and tachycardia.
- Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which can cause shortness of breath and dry cough, often with mucus production.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause respiratory symptoms including shortness of breath and dry cough, especially in response to allergens like pollen or dust.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cardiac Tamponade: A life-threatening condition where fluid accumulates in the sac around the heart, compressing it and leading to shortness of breath and potentially dry cough, among other severe symptoms.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: High blood pressure in the arteries that supply blood to the lungs, which can cause shortness of breath and dry cough, and can be fatal if not treated.
- Lung Cancer: Although less common, lung cancer can present with shortness of breath and dry cough, especially in smokers or those exposed to carcinogens.
- Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs and can cause shortness of breath, dry cough, and other systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells form lumps in various parts of the body, including the lungs, which can cause shortness of breath and dry cough.
- Interstitial Lung Disease: A group of disorders that cause scarring or inflammation in the lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and dry cough.
- Eosinophilic Pneumonia: A rare condition characterized by an accumulation of eosinophils in the lungs, which can cause respiratory symptoms including shortness of breath and dry cough.
- Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis: A rare condition where cancer spreads to the lymphatic vessels in the lungs, causing shortness of breath and dry cough among other symptoms.