Differential Diagnosis for Sudden Shortness of Breath
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Pulmonary Embolism: This condition is often considered the single most likely diagnosis for sudden shortness of breath due to its potential for rapid onset and the severity of its consequences. It occurs when a blood clot lodges in the lungs' blood vessels, obstructing blood flow.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Asthma Exacerbation: Sudden shortness of breath can be a hallmark of an asthma attack, especially if triggered by allergens or respiratory irritants. The airways constrict, leading to difficulty breathing.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbation: Similar to asthma, COPD exacerbations can cause sudden shortness of breath due to increased airway resistance and inflammation.
- Pneumonia: An infection in the lungs can lead to sudden onset of shortness of breath, among other symptoms like fever and cough.
- Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): Although more commonly associated with chest pain, ACS (including myocardial infarction) can present with shortness of breath as a primary symptom, especially in diabetic or elderly patients.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cardiac Tamponade: A life-threatening condition where fluid accumulates in the sac around the heart, impeding its ability to pump blood effectively. Shortness of breath can be a presenting symptom, along with chest pain and hypotension.
- Tension Pneumothorax: A medical emergency where air enters the space between the lungs and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. It can lead to sudden shortness of breath and requires immediate intervention.
- Anaphylaxis: A severe, whole-body allergic reaction that can cause shortness of breath, among other symptoms like rash, swelling, and hypotension. It is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: A rare disease characterized by an excess of Langerhans cells in the lungs, leading to the formation of cysts and nodules that can cause shortness of breath.
- Eosinophilic Pneumonia: A rare condition where eosinophils accumulate in the lungs, causing inflammation and leading to symptoms like shortness of breath.
- Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis: A rare condition where cancer spreads to the lymphatic vessels in the lungs, causing shortness of breath and other respiratory symptoms.