breathing issues

my best friend had a double mastectomy and aquired lymphodema problems all over her body. but the most disturbing symptom she has is pulmonary. She has a severe problem with shortness of breath. just walking to the bathroom she can hardly speak. Its not her heart because she had a heart cath and her heart looks great. Anyone out there experience anything like this.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Shortness of breath can be due to a cause either in heart or lung or due to anemia. Angina, heart attack and pulmonary embolism (clot in lung) should be ruled out first. If there is wheezing, asthma is likely. Other causes are mitral valve problems, pulmonary hypertension, anemia, hyperventilation syndrome or psychological factors. A detailed and comprehensive investigation will be required including EKG, Chest X-ray, blood test for anemia, maybe CT scan of chest, BP recording etc. Please consult your friend's doctor to start with.  
Take care!

[greersfolly]

I am  newly diagnosed lymphedema patient with both lower legs involved.  I, too, suffer from shortness of breath.  It is thought that the cause of my lymphedema is a partial knee replacement surgery of the right knee.

All other medical causes for the shortness of breath mentioned by Dr. Mathur have been ruled out.  I personally feel the shortness of breath is directly related to the lymphedema.   When I have less swelling I breathe easier..





hae een ruled out.