Dizziness, shortness of breath and fatigue

Breathlessness may feel like not getting enough air, chest tightness or needing to work harder to breathe. Fatigue can accompany reduced oxygen delivery, infection, poor sleep or ongoing illness. Anaemia can present with fatigue, breathlessness, paleness, palpitations and dizziness; heavy bleeding is one possible contributor. Asthma can cause episodes of breathlessness and chest tightness, while Acute Bronchitis may bring cough and mucus.

Heart and lung conditions can also present with this combination. Angina may cause chest discomfort with exertion, and Atrial Fibrillation may cause palpitations, tiredness or breathlessness. COPD and Bronchiectasis can cause persistent breathing symptoms. These symptoms do not identify one diagnosis, so severity, onset and triggers need assessment.

Stop exertion, sit upright, loosen tight clothing and use a prescribed reliever inhaler exactly as directed. Avoid driving if dizzy or breathless. Record whether symptoms began suddenly, follow activity, occur at rest, or come with cough, fever, wheeze, swelling, palpitations or bleeding. Arrange prompt medical review for new or recurring symptoms, reduced exercise tolerance, unexplained fatigue or symptoms that are worsening.

Call emergency services for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, inability to speak comfortably, fainting, new confusion, severe chest pain, sudden weakness, facial drooping or a sudden severe headache. Sudden breathing difficulty after food, medicine or an insect sting can indicate Anaphylaxis and needs immediate help. Do not wait for home measures to work when breathing is severely affected.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest anaemia, asthma, an infection, a heart rhythm problem or another lung condition; whether you need oxygen, heart or blood tests; and what change should prompt emergency care.