Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
08:44
Author Spotlight: Integrating Alveolar-Capillary Reserve Measurements in Exercise Adaptation and Therapeutic Strategies
Published on: February 2, 2024
1.2K
Burden of unexplained dyspnea: a single-center study
Anissa Reguig1, Clémence Remy1, Lidwine Wemeau2
1Univ. Lille, CHU de Lille, Service de Pneumologie et Immuno-allergologie, Centre de référence constitutif pour les maladies pulmonaires rares F-59000 Lille, France.
Respiratory Medicine and Research
|December 24, 2025
Summary
Unexplained dyspnea significantly impacts quality of life, causing physical and mental health burdens. Early diagnosis by expert centers is crucial for managing these breathing difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Unexplained dyspnea is characterized by breathing discomfort without a diagnosed underlying medical condition.
- Patients referred to specialized dyspnea centers often present with complex symptoms requiring thorough evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the comprehensive burden of unexplained dyspnea on patients' physical and mental health.
- To characterize the clinical features, exercise capacity, and psychological profiles of individuals with unexplained dyspnea.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 29 patients with confirmed unexplained dyspnea was evaluated.
- Assessments included the SF-36 questionnaire for quality of life, mMRC, multidimensional dyspnea profile (MDP), Borg score, Nijmegen questionnaire, HAD scale, peak V̇O2, and ventilatory response to exercise.
Main Results:
- Patients reported significantly low scores across multiple SF-36 domains, indicating a substantial impact on physical functioning, emotional well-being, and general health.
- A high prevalence of activity-limiting dyspnea (79%), low exercise capacity (55%), and exertional hyperventilation or inefficient breathing patterns (74%) was observed.
- Hyperventilation symptoms were prevalent (59%) and correlated with poorer quality of life and increased anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Unexplained dyspnea imposes a significant burden on patients' physical and mental health.
- Specialized centers play a vital role in diagnosing unexplained dyspnea, facilitating timely and effective symptomatic management.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
3.1K
Assessing and diagnosing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) involves a detailed approach that includes a comprehensive review of medical history, physical examination, and a variety of diagnostic tests. This thorough evaluation is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and guide effective management strategies.
Medical History
Medical History
3.1K
01:22Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
2.2K
COPD is defined as a heterogeneous lung condition marked by persistent respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and sputum production, caused by abnormalities in the airways that cause airflow obstruction.
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
2.2K
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
3.5K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-lasting respiratory condition requiring continuous attention and care. It is a progressive lung disease that leads to breathing challenges due to airflow obstruction. It manifests as persistent respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow resulting from abnormalities in the airways and alveoli, usually due to long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases. COPD mainly consists of two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
3.5K
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
194
Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
194
01:25Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.
3.5K
Understanding the variety of primary symptoms and systemic complications that characterize chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is crucial for healthcare professionals.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
3.5K
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
4.2K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
4.2K