[Definition, primary examination and differential diagnostics in acute dyspnea]
1Zentrale Notaufnahme, Caritas-Krankenhaus St. Josef, Landshuter Str. 65, 93053, Regensburg, Deutschland. ahuefner@caritasstjosef.de.
Abstract:
The topic of acute dyspnea is presented in two separate articles. This first part deals with the definition and pathophysiology of dyspnea as well as important considerations on the history of the present illness, physical examination, initial therapy and differential diagnostic considerations. The second part covers relevant diagnostic investigations and principles for the initial management. The causes, consequences and perception of acute dyspnea can be very different. The adult patient with acute dyspnea presents difficult challenges in the diagnosis and management. The emergency clinician must work through a wide range of differential diagnostic considerations while providing appropriate initial treatment for a potentially life-threatening disease.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion
Inspection Findings
During an inspection, several findings may suggest the presence of respiratory distress or disease. Pursed-lip breathing, where exhalation is slowed by...
Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction


