What to do for my 65-year-old mother who has shortness of breath without exertion and swelling after taking medication? - #52655

Hi! I’m an assistant to the Ask Ayurveda doctors. I’ve carefully reviewed your question.

I will explain your mother’s symptoms through the Ayurvedic perspective so you understand what is happening in her body as a whole.

The shortness of breath and facial swelling she experiences can be understood through the lens of Ayurvedic doshas and imbalances. Shortness of breath, especially without exertion, often indicates an imbalance in Vata dosha, which governs movement and air flow in the body. When Vata is disturbed, it can lead to irregularities in breathing. Additionally, the swelling may suggest a Kapha imbalance, as Kapha is associated with fluid retention and heaviness.

Both symptoms together suggest a systemic imbalance where Vata’s irregularity and Kapha’s heaviness are not in harmony. This can be influenced by factors such as weak digestion (Agni), leading to accumulation of toxins (Ama) that can affect respiratory function and fluid balance.

To give doctors a precise and effective treatment plan, your answers to the questions below are essential. Without this information, the recommendations will be more general and less accurate.

Please answer each question as clearly as possible.

1. How long has your mother been experiencing shortness of breath? Please specify the duration: Less than 1 week, 1-4 weeks, 1-6 months, or more than 6 months. 2. How would you rate the severity of her shortness of breath? Is it mild, moderate, severe, or very severe? 3. When does the shortness of breath worsen? Is it at rest, during physical activity, in the evening, or does it follow no specific pattern? 4. Are there any specific triggers for her symptoms, such as weather changes, dust or allergens, emotional stress, or no clear trigger? 5. What medications has she taken that caused the facial swelling? Are they over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, or something else? 6. How is her overall energy level during the day? Would you describe it as very good, good, fair, or poor? 7. Does she have any other accompanying symptoms like cough, chest pain, or fatigue? 8. Has she had any previous respiratory issues or conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or other lung diseases?

Your detailed responses will help in formulating a more tailored Ayurvedic approach for her care.