Orthopnea overview: Difference between revisions
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It is commonly measured according to the number of pillows needed to prop the patient up to enable breathing (Example: "3 pillow orthopnea"). | It is commonly measured according to the number of pillows needed to prop the patient up to enable breathing (Example: "3 pillow orthopnea"). | ||
==Pathophysiology== | ==Pathophysiology== | ||
When a patient lies flat, pulmonary and venous pressure increases due to increase in venous return to the [[lung]]s. | When a patient lies flat, pulmonary and venous pressure increases due to an increase in venous return to the [[lung]]s. | ||
==Causes== | ==Causes== | ||
The condition is often due to [[left ventricular failure]] and/or [[pulmonary edema]]. | The condition is often due to [[left ventricular failure]] and/or [[pulmonary edema]]. | ||
Revision as of 14:44, 8 March 2013
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Orthopnea Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Orthopnea overview On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Orthopnea overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Orthopnea (Greek from ortho, straight + pnoia, breath) is dyspnea which occurs when lying flat, causing the person to have to sleep propped up in bed or sitting in a chair. Orthopnoea is a symptom of heart failure. It can also occur in those with asthma and chronic bronchitis, as well as those with sleep apnea or panic disorder. It is commonly measured according to the number of pillows needed to prop the patient up to enable breathing (Example: "3 pillow orthopnea").
Pathophysiology
When a patient lies flat, pulmonary and venous pressure increases due to an increase in venous return to the lungs.
Causes
The condition is often due to left ventricular failure and/or pulmonary edema.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Orthopnea indicates heart failure in almost 95% of cases.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Patients with orthopnoea often complain of waking up suddenly during the night 'unable to breathe' if they have slipped down from their pillows into the supine position. They may run to the window to 'get some air'.
Electrocardiogram
It should be performed to exclude MI, RV strain, LV hypertrophy and cardiomyopathy
Chest X Ray
It should be obtained to assess extent of pulmonary edema
Echocardiography
It reveals any structure problems of the heart, valves and LV function