Breathing Difficulty - Lying Down
Alternate Names : Difficulty Breathing While Lying Down, Orthopnea, Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea, PND, Waking at Night Short of Breath
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What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
The health care provider will perform a physical examination and will obtain your medical history.
Medical history questions documenting nocturnal dyspnea include the following:
- Ttime pattern
- Did this develop suddenly or slowly?
- Is it getting worse (progressive)?
- Quality
- How bad is it?
- How many pillows are required to breathe comfortably?
- Aggravating factors
- What other symptoms are also present?
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.
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