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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Shortness Of Breath And Fatigue In Elderly?

My mom who is 82 years old is having shortness of breath, fatigue, some burning in her lungs and swollen ankles. She has asthma and afib. I'm concerned about her and am wondering is she may have pnuemonia. She does not want to go to the doctor. I checked her pulse it is 94 and heart rate is 107. Any idea what she may have. She does not smoke or drink.
Wed, 29 Apr 2015
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
She might have some heart failure. She really does need to be seen, at the ER is best. She could also have pneumonia. I am not sure why you have different readings for the pulse and heart rate- they measure the same thing. If you did one by hand and one with a machine, the difference might be you didn't feel all the beats when taking the pulse. This can happen with A fib as the beats are of different strengths. 107 is a bit fast, which can go along with both pneumonia and heart failure. Urge her to go to ER and have this evaluated. She needs to get an accurate diagnosis and get started on appropriate treatment. Hope this helps,
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General & Family Physician,  Dr. Riyanka Chail's  Response
Hi,
Firstly due to cardiovascular and respiratory problems due to old age shortness of breath , fatigue is common in elderly.
However i suggest you to consult a general physician whom may refer your mother to a cardioogist regarding cardiovascular tests .He may precribe medicines that will relieve the symptoms as per the diagnosis.
So, as of now it is very important to take her to a doctor immediately.
Thank you
Dr.Riyanka
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What Causes Shortness Of Breath And Fatigue In Elderly?

She might have some heart failure. She really does need to be seen, at the ER is best. She could also have pneumonia. I am not sure why you have different readings for the pulse and heart rate- they measure the same thing. If you did one by hand and one with a machine, the difference might be you didn t feel all the beats when taking the pulse. This can happen with A fib as the beats are of different strengths. 107 is a bit fast, which can go along with both pneumonia and heart failure. Urge her to go to ER and have this evaluated. She needs to get an accurate diagnosis and get started on appropriate treatment. Hope this helps,