What does PND stand for in medical terminology?

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnea (PND) is a medical term that describes episodes of severe shortness of breath that occur suddenly during sleep. This condition is often associated with heart failure or other cardiovascular issues, as lying flat can increase venous return to the heart and exacerbate congestion in the lungs, leading to nocturnal breathing difficulties. Patients experiencing PND typically wake up feeling breathless and may need to sit upright or stand to alleviate their breathing difficulties. Understanding PND and its implications helps healthcare professionals evaluate a patient's respiratory and cardiovascular health more effectively, ensuring appropriate management and treatment plans are in place.