Shortness of breath (also known as difficulty in breathing, breathlessness,
or dyspnea) is one of the most unpleasant conditions a person can experience.
Shortness of breath may keep people awake at night or unable to do the simplest
of tasks. Patients with advanced IgA Nephropathy may experience
this symptom due to various mechanisms related to different problems in the
body. Continue reading to find out the exact cause.
Anemia. This refers to a deficiency of red blood cells,
which usually develops early in kidney disease and worsens as Renal Failure
develops. Because the red cells carry oxygen, when their amount is extremely
low, the oxygen demands of the body will not be met, resulting in shortness of
breath.
Blood pressure changes. Electrolytes function to maintain
blood volume, which impacts the blood pressure. Two important electrolytes,
sodium and potassium work together to balance fluid level. An imbalance in these
two minerals can lead to increased blood volume, which causes the increase of
blood pressure, or decreased blood volume, causing low blood pressure. High
blood pressure makes the heart to work harder, which requires more oxygen,
causing a patient feel difficulty in breathing. Low blood pressure reduces the
flow of oxygen to the cells, which can also result in shortness of breath.
Lung problems. Kidney disease can cause extra fluid to build
up in the lungs and the body and impaired oxygen exchange in the lungs, patients
may experience breathlessness in the advanced stages of IgA Nephropathy.
Anxiety disorder. Anxiety is occasionally accompanied by
heavy and rapid breathing, or hyperventilation. Dyspnea often resolves once the
anxiety episode ends.
Whatever the reason, the circumstance that is producing the shortness of
breath in IgA Nephropathy should be determined in order to treat the underlying
cause thus alleviating the problem. If you need any help, send an email to kidney-treatment@hotmail.com.
We will try our best to help you!