orthopnea

pathology

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July 17, 2026

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Orthopnea is a symptom of heart failure characterized by shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat. This happens because fluid accumulates in the lungs when the heart cannot effectively pump blood. When a person with orthopnea lies down, the fluid redistribution causes increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation, leading to difficulty breathing. This condition is often accompanied by other symptoms of heart failure, such as edema (swelling) in the extremities. Orthopnea can be a significant indicator of the severity of heart dysfunction.12

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cardiovascular disease
Ventricular dysfunction in heart failure
…on lying down is called orthopnea and is a major symptom of heart failure. In addition, the patient may experience acute shortness of breath while sleeping (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea) that is related to circulatory inadequacy and fluid overload. When this occurs, the patient is awakened suddenly and suffers severe anxiety…
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…on lying down is called orthopnea and is a major symptom of heart failure. In addition, the patient may experience acute shortness of breath while sleeping (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea) that is related to circulatory inadequacy and fluid overload. When this occurs, the patient is awakened suddenly and suffers severe anxiety…
Read More