What is shortness of breath?

People who have shortness of breath describe it in different ways. Some people say that they feel like they can’t take a deep breath in or get enough air. Other people might feel like their chest is tight or they have to work harder than usual to breathe. The medical term for shortness of breath is “dyspnea.”

Shortness of breath can start suddenly, over minutes to hours. It can also happen over a longer period of time, from weeks to months.

What causes shortness of breath?

Different medical conditions can cause shortness of breath.

Shortness of breath that starts suddenly can be caused by:

• Viruses that infect the lungs – Common examples are influenza (the flu), respiratory syncytial virus (“RSV”), and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).
• Lung problems, such as asthma, bacterial infections, or blood clots – These conditions might cause other symptoms, too. For example, asthma can also cause wheezing, coughing, or chest tightness.
• Heart problems, such as a heart attack or heart failure – A heart attack can also cause chest pain or pressure. Heart failure is when the heart does not pump as well as it should.
• A severe allergic reaction, called “anaphylaxis” – This can also cause itching, swelling, or a rash.
• Anemia – This is a condition that can happen if you lose a lot of blood. It often causes other symptoms, such as a fast heartbeat and dizziness.

For shortness of breath that happens over weeks to months, the most common causes are:

• Pregnancy – It can be normal for pregnant people to feel slightly short of breath just after they lie down or are active.
• Lung problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (“COPD”) – Both of these conditions can make it hard to breathe. COPD usually happens in people who have smoked for at least several years.
• Heart problems, such as heart failure or a change in the size and shape of the heart (called “cardiomyopathy”)
• Having excess body weight or not getting enough physical activity
• Anxiety or panic disorders

Should I see a doctor or nurse?

Yes. If you have shortness of breath, see your doctor or nurse.

Sometimes, shortness of breath means that your condition is serious and you need emergency help. Call for an ambulance (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if you have:

• Shortness of breath, and think that you are having a heart attack
• New chest pain with shortness of breath
• Severe shortness of breath (it is hard to breathe when you are sitting still)
• An allergic reaction with shortness of breath

If you’ve already seen a doctor or nurse about shortness of breath, call them again if it gets worse.

Will I have tests?

You might. Your doctor or nurse will talk with you, ask about your symptoms, and do an exam. They might also order 1 or more of the following tests:

• A swab from inside your nose (to test for lung infections)
• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray
• Electrocardiogram (“ECG”) to measure the electrical activity in your heart
• Breathing test

Depending on your results, you might need more tests, too.

How is shortness of breath treated?

Shortness of breath is treated in different ways, depending on the cause. Once your doctor or nurse figures out the cause of your symptoms, they will talk with you about different possible treatments.

Is there anything I can do to feel better on my own?

You might feel better if you:

• Quit smoking (if you smoke), and avoid being around smoke.
• Avoid things that might cause breathing problems, such as fumes, pollution, pollens, or dust.
• Take all of your medicines as instructed:
  • If you have an inhaler to use when you are feeling short of breath (for example, because you have asthma), carry it with you all of the time.
  • If you have inhalers to use on a regular schedule, remember to take them. This is important even if the medicine does not help your breathing right away.
• Practice taking slow, deep breaths – This can help calm you down and make it easier to breathe. Yoga and meditation can both help with this.
• Avoid tight clothing – Wearing tight clothing might make it feel harder to breathe.
• Try to increase exercise gradually over time – This will help build your stamina.
• Try using a fan to blow cool air on your face – This might help you feel better and keep calm when you are feeling short of breath.
• Tell your doctor if you are struggling with anxiety – Sometimes, shortness of breath can happen in people with anxiety or panic disorder. There are treatments that can help with these conditions.