Question

Shortness of breath when lying down that is relieved by sitting up

Answer 1

Shortness of breath when lying down may be due to conditions like pregnancy causing increased respiratory volume, orthostatic hypotension affecting blood flow when changing positions, or chronic diseases like COPD which impact airflow and respiratory function.

Step-by-step explanation:

Shortness of breath when lying down that is relieved by sitting up can be due to several reasons, including pregnancy or certain health conditions. During the second half of pregnancy, respiratory minute volume increases by 50 percent, and the growing uterus can pressure the diaphragm leading to dyspnea. The situation usually improves after the process of lightening, where the fetus descends into the pelvis, relieving upward pressure.

Conditions like Orthostatic Hypotension, where blood flow adjustments upon changing positions cause dizziness, and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by long-term poor airflow and progressive dyspnea, can also cause breathing difficulties when lying down.

Answer 2

Orthopnea is a shortness of breath that occurs when lying down and typically resolves when sitting or standing up. Orthopnea is often a symptom of heart failure, but it can develop due to other conditions that affect the functioning of the lungs, such as COPD.