Diagnosis
Table 1. Sample Questions for Evaluation of Dyspnea
Do you get short of breath at rest?
Do you get short of breath with minimal exertion? (e.g., walking across
a room, doing light housework, putting on your shoes, talking on the
telephone)
How far can you walk before stopping due to shortness of breath?
How far can you walk on an incline before stopping?
How many flights of stairs can you climb before stopping?
For how long have you felt short of breath?
Do you have chest pain with exertion?
Do you have any trouble breathing while you sleep or lie flat in bed?
Have you ever passed out?
Have you ever felt you were about to pass out?
Do you have any dizziness or light-headedness at rest or with exertion?
Do you have swelling in your legs?
Do you have swelling in your abdomen?
