Is shortness of breath a serious symptom?
Dyspnea on its own usually isn't dangerous, but sometimes, shortness of breath can be a sign of a life-threatening condition.

If your breathing has become labored and difficult for no obvious reason, it may be the sign of a more serious medical problem. If chest pain or pressure, fainting or nausea accompanies shortness of breath, you should treat it as a medical emergency.

Check your lungs with PEF Meter !
To perform the peak expiratory flow (PEF) test, you need a peak flow meter. A peak flow meter is an inexpensive hand-held device you breathe into as hard and as fast as you can.

How it is done ?

• Before you start, remove any gum or food you may have in your mouth.
• Set the pointer
• Be sure the gauge of the peak flow meter is set to 0 or the lowest number on the meter.
• Attach the mouthpiece to the meter.
• Some meters don't have a separate mouthpiece.
• Sit up or stand up as straight as you can, and take a deep breath.
• Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.
• Keep your tongue away from the mouthpiece.
• Breathe out as hard and as fast as you can for 1 or 2 seconds.
• A hard and fast breath usually makes a "huff" sound.
• Write down the number on the gauge.
• This is your peak flow.
• Repeat these steps 2 more times.
• If you cough or make a mistake during the testing, redo the test.

Results
Results from a peak flow meter or home spirometer can be compared to monitor the progression of disease or help measure your response to medical treatment for a long-term (chronic) lung disease, such as asthma.
(A.K.Arun,M.D.for Heal Initiative)

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