What clinical symptom is characterized by difficulty breathing?

Dyspnea is the clinical term used to describe difficulty or labored breathing. It can manifest as shortness of breath, a feeling of being breathless, or an uncomfortable awareness of breathing effort. Dyspnea can arise from various pathophysiological conditions involving the respiratory system, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism, as well as from cardiac issues like heart failure.

Understanding dyspnea is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it can indicate underlying respiratory or cardiovascular dysfunction. The assessment of dyspnea often involves examining its severity, duration, and associated symptoms, which can provide important information about the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment strategies.