What is orthopnea?

Orthopnea specifically refers to the difficulty breathing that occurs when a person is lying down. This condition is often associated with heart failure and can be relieved by sitting up or standing. Patients with orthopnea may require multiple pillows to prop themselves up while sleeping in order to breathe comfortably. This differs from other forms of dyspnea, such as paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, which involves sudden episodes of severe shortness of breath during the night, usually awakening the individual from sleep. Understanding orthopnea is crucial for recognizing underlying health issues and tailoring appropriate medical interventions for patients experiencing respiratory distress.