What does orthopnea refer to?

Orthopnea refers specifically to the difficulty breathing when lying flat. This condition often occurs in individuals with certain medical conditions such as heart failure, where the supine position can exacerbate fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to increased respiratory distress. Patients affected by orthopnea generally find relief when sitting or standing up, as these positions assist in reducing venous return to the heart and improving lung expansion. This scenario highlights an important aspect of evaluating respiratory symptoms and understanding how positional changes can affect breathing. This knowledge is crucial for healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing conditions related to respiratory distress.