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Alternative names Return to top
Waking at night short of breath; Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea; PND; Difficulty breathing while lying down; OrthopneaDefinition Return to top
Breathing difficulty while lying down is an abnormal condition in which a person must keep the head elevated (such as by sitting or standing) to be able to breathe deeply or comfortably (orthopnea), or the person awakens suddenly during the night feeling short of breath (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea).Considerations Return to top
For people with some types of heart or lung problems, this is a common complaint. Sometimes the problem is subtle and is only noticed when the person realizes that sleep is more comfortable with lots of pillows under the head or in a propped up position.Common Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
Your health care provider may prescribe therapy to treat breathing difficulty while lying down.
Weight reduction is generally recommended in cases of obesity.
Call your health care provider if Return to top
If you have any unexplained difficulty in breathing while lying down, call for an appointment with your health care provider.
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
The health care provider will perform a physical examination and will obtain your medical history.
Medical history questions documenting nocturnal dyspnea include the following:
The physical examination will include special attention to the heart and lungs (cardiovascular and respiratory systems).
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:
Supplemental oxygen may be administered. Update Date: 5/4/2003 Updated by: Bridget Martell, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |