There is a lack of consensus over the term “paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.” Some medical professionals use it to refer exclusively to a symptom of heart failure. In other cases, it’s used to describe nighttime shortness of breath caused by other medical conditions, some of which are benign. Some of the most common causes of nighttime shortness of breath are described below. Heart failure Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart muscle struggles to adequately pump blood throughout the body. It can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and around the lungs, which can make it difficult to breathe. Many people with heart failure also experience difficulty breathing when exerting themselves or laying down. Respiratory conditions PND can also be related to lung and respiratory system function. Respiratory conditions that can cause or lead to PND include: asthma COPD postnasal drip pulmonary edema sleep apnea pulmonary artery embolism restrictive lung disease Other medical conditions PND can also be related to a variety of other conditions. Some of these include: stomach acid reflux kidney failure anxiety or panic attacks PND is serious. You should see a doctor to determine what’s causing your nighttime shortness of breath.