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Real members of MyHeartDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Breathing Difficulties

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Little Rock, AR

After seeing a pulmonologist for shortness of breath and fatigue, he found no reason for shortness of breath. I was sent to my cardiologist where I was diagnosed and treated with medications. I am still experiencing shortness of breath and fatigue. The cardiologist changed my beta blocker which helped the way I was feeling but he swears I should not still be out of breath. I cannot function with this issue. Does anyone have any ideas on what my next move should be? Thanks.

October 14, 2025
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone struggling with persistent shortness of breath despite normal tests from both a pulmonologist and cardiologist,... Read more

Members rallied around someone struggling with persistent shortness of breath despite normal tests from both a pulmonologist and cardiologist, with several suggesting continued advocacy by seeking second opinions, requesting specific cardiac tests like echocardiograms, or revisiting specialists when symptoms don't match diagnoses. Several members shared that beta blockers themselves can cause shortness of breath and that adjusting or stopping the medication helped them significantly, while others noted that conditions like lupus and heart failure can create overlapping causes that complicate diagnosis and treatment. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, exercising when possible despite symptoms, and recognizing that some days will be harder than others, especially in warmer weather.

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

My body was helped when the beta blocker was cut in half but now I'm not to take any of it. That was a good change and I'm doing fine now, Best wishes for you!

October 22, 2025
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

@A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member I'm sorry to hear about all you have been through with your Heart issues and so happy to hear you had a medical team that was able to help you. I have spoken with my cardiologist several times but he sees.no reason for my shortness of breath so I am stumped. My ejection fraction started out at 30/35 in April and is up to 60 percent now which makes me wonder even more about what could be going on. I will keep on trying to find an answer!! Thank you so much for your thoughts and advice!!

October 14, 2025
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

JacqueGraewert,
I would listen to my Pulmonologist, because, if there are things to worried about, He/She would have let you know. These different chambers in our body's, that we are working with, are very different circumstances, so thank God for the good news, and now the Cardiologist can come up with a satisfying solutions for better health. My Pulmonologist, gave me ADVAIR DISKUS 500mcg/50mcg (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder) and a few other medications, to alleviate my breathing problems. My circumstances are different, I was in ICU for two weeks in 2020, with a 10% ejection fraction. The healthcare providers had to bring me back to life....I pray everything works out in your favor. God Bless,
If you have anymore questions, please feel free to ask. Take care

October 14, 2025 (edited)
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Thanks @A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member I actually saw a Pulmonologist before I saw the Cardiologist. The Pulmonologist said the breathing tests I took were all normal, he then sent me to the Cardiologist. Do you think it would be worth seeing the same Pulmonologist or go for a second opinion. It normally takes up to 3 months to get an appointment. What did the Pulmonologist do to help you?

October 14, 2025
MyHeartDiseaseTeam

Many MyHeartDiseaseTeam members have shared similar experiences with ongoing shortness of breath, even after medication adjustments. While beta-blockers can help manage heart disease, they can sometimes list shortness of breath as a side effect. It's important to note that shortness of breath experiences can vary Show Full Answer

Many MyHeartDiseaseTeam members have shared similar experiences with ongoing shortness of breath, even after medication adjustments. While beta-blockers can help manage heart disease, they can sometimes list shortness of breath as a side effect. It's important to note that shortness of breath experiences can vary significantly between individuals - some experience it while sitting, others during activity.

Here are some suggested next steps:

• Request a cardiac rehabilitation evaluation
• Consider discussing alternative medications with your cardiologist
• Ask about getting a tailored exercise regimen from a physical therapist
• Track when your shortness of breath occurs and any potential triggers Some members have found relief through lifestyle modifications:

• Walking at a slower, more manageable pace
• Practicing restorative yoga with simple stretching
• Monitoring sodium intake, as some report it affects breathing
• Getting regular physical activity as tolerated

Remember that while your cardiologist says you shouldn't be out of breath, your experience is valid. If you're not satisfied with your current management plan, it's appropriate to seek a second opinion or request additional evaluation.

October 14, 2025

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