Differential Diagnosis for Dyspnea on Exertion
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Chronic Heart Failure: This is often the most common cause of dyspnea on exertion due to the heart's inability to meet the increased oxygen demand during physical activity, leading to symptoms of shortness of breath.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD can cause dyspnea on exertion due to airflow limitation, which worsens with physical activity.
- Asthma: Similar to COPD, asthma can cause shortness of breath during exertion, especially if not well-controlled.
- Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin can lead to a decrease in oxygen delivery to tissues, causing dyspnea on exertion.
- Obesity: Excess weight can increase the workload on the heart and lungs, leading to shortness of breath during physical activity.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition that can cause sudden onset of dyspnea on exertion and must not be missed.
- Coronary Artery Disease: Angina or myocardial infarction can present with dyspnea on exertion, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis to prevent missing a potentially fatal condition.
- Pneumonia: Certain types of pneumonia, especially those caused by atypical organisms, can present with dyspnea on exertion as an initial symptom.
Rare Diagnoses
- Interstitial Lung Disease: Conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can cause dyspnea on exertion due to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue.
- Cardiac Tamponade: Fluid accumulation in the pericardial space can compress the heart, leading to impaired cardiac output and dyspnea on exertion.
- Mitral Stenosis: This valvular heart disease can cause dyspnea on exertion due to the obstruction of blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.
- Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that can cause respiratory symptoms, including dyspnea on exertion, due to the production of thick, sticky mucus.