Causes of breathlessness in pregnancy

Pregnancy changes how deeply and frequently you breathe, while the growing uterus can make exertion feel harder later on. Anaemia may reduce oxygen delivery and cause tiredness, dizziness, paleness, or a racing heartbeat. Asthma can flare or become harder to control. Acute Bronchitis and Bronchiectasis may cause breathlessness with cough or mucus. Heart-related causes include Angina or Atrial Fibrillation. Anaphylaxis can cause sudden breathing difficulty with swelling, hives, wheeze, or throat tightness and is an emergency.

Tell your midwife, obstetric clinician, or doctor when the breathlessness began, whether it occurs at rest or with activity, and whether it is changing. Mention cough, fever, wheeze, palpitations, chest discomfort, bleeding, leg swelling, allergies, and your pregnancy stage. Sit upright, pace activities, avoid known asthma triggers, and use prescribed inhalers exactly as directed. Do not start a medicine or supplement without checking its pregnancy suitability.

Call emergency services for sudden or severe breathlessness, blue lips, fainting, confusion, chest pain, coughing blood, facial or tongue swelling, or inability to speak comfortably. Seek prompt maternity or medical assessment for breathlessness at rest, a new fast or irregular heartbeat, one-sided leg swelling, fever, or symptoms that are worsening.

Could anaemia, asthma, or a heart problem be contributing? Which tests are appropriate in pregnancy? What should I do if symptoms happen at night or after taking a medicine?