Shortness of Breath Linked to Increased Mortality in Hospitalized Patients

Research led by Associate Professor Robert Banzett from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, has revealed that patients experiencing shortness of breath, or dyspnoea, upon hospital admission face a significantly higher risk of mortality. The study, published in ERJ Open Research, analyzed data from nearly 10,000 adults admitted to hospitals between March 2014 and September 2016. It found that patients who reported dyspnoea were six times more likely to die in the hospital compared to those who did not experience this symptom. Furthermore, 25% of patients who felt short of breath at rest upon discharge died within six months, in stark contrast to a 7% mortality rate among those without dyspnoea.

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to dieDaily Mail

The study emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to routinely assess patients for dyspnoea, similar to how they evaluate pain. The assessment involves asking patients to rate their shortness of breath on a scale from 0 to 10, a process that takes approximately 45 seconds. This simple inquiry could lead to improved management of patients at higher risk of adverse outcomes, as those with increased dyspnoea ratings were also more likely to require intensive care and rapid response team interventions.

Daily Mail

Professor Banzett noted that while dyspnoea is not a definitive predictor of death—94% of patients survive hospitalization—recognizing at-risk patients through quick assessments can enhance individualized care. He explained that dyspnoea serves as a critical alert indicating insufficient oxygenation, which poses an existential threat.

Daily Mail

Dr. Cláudia Almeida Vicente, Chair of the European Respiratory Society’s General Practice and Primary Care Group, highlighted that new-onset dyspnoea during hospitalization is a strong indicator of clinical decline, warranting rapid reassessment and closer monitoring. She also pointed out that various conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can cause breathlessness.

Daily Mail

While the findings are significant, experts like Professor Hilary Pinnock from the University of Edinburgh have called for further research to explore the mechanisms linking dyspnoea to mortality and how this information can be utilized to improve patient care. The study's authors also advocate for additional investigations to confirm these results across different hospital settings.

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to die

The elevated two-year mortality rates among patients discharged with dyspnoea suggest a need for enhanced follow-up care. Experts recommend proactive management of cardiopulmonary diseases and early post-hospital visits for these patients to mitigate long-term risks.

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to dieDaily Mail

• “The sensation of dyspnoea is an alert that the body is not getting enough oxygen in and carbon dioxide out.” — Professor Robert Banzett, Harvard Medical School

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to die

• “From a primary care perspective, the elevated two-year mortality in patients discharged with dyspnoea signals the need for tighter post-hospital follow-up. These patients may benefit from early visits, medication review, and proactive management of cardiopulmonary disease. A quick dyspnoea score offers powerful prognostic value and should inform both inpatient decisions and outpatient planning.” — Dr. Cláudia Almeida Vicente, European Respiratory Society

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to die

This research underscores the critical importance of recognizing and addressing dyspnoea in hospitalized patients to improve outcomes and potentially save lives.

Hospital patients who feel short of breath are six times more likely to die