Hi,
There could be several reasons for sudden difficulty in walking short distances, especially for an older person. Some of the common causes could include:
* Cardiovascular problems: Cardiovascular problems such as
heart failure or
atherosclerosis can cause
fatigue and
shortness of breath during exercise.
* Respiratory problems: Respiratory problems such as COPD or asthma can cause shortness of breath and fatigue during exercise.
* Medications: Some medications can cause fatigue and
muscle weakness, which can make it difficult to walk.
* Dehydration: Dehydration can cause fatigue and muscle weakness, which can make it difficult to walk.
* Anemia: Anemia is a condition in which the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the muscles. This can cause fatigue and shortness of breath during exercise.
* Muscle or joint problems: Muscle or joint problems such as
arthritis or
myopathy can make it difficult to walk.
Given your age and medical history, it is important to consult with your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Your doctor may need to adjust your medications or conduct further tests to determine the cause of your difficulty in walking.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician