What should you know about exertional dyspnoea?

Breathing harder during strenuous activity can be normal, but breathlessness that is new, worsening, disproportionate, or present during ordinary tasks should be checked. A clinician may consider airway conditions such as [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/), [COPD](/conditions/copd/), [Bronchiectasis](/conditions/bronchiectasis/), or [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/).

Heart rhythm or blood-flow problems, including [Angina](/conditions/angina/) and [Atrial Fibrillation](/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/), can also reduce exercise tolerance. [Anaemia](/conditions/anaemia/) may cause tiredness, paleness, dizziness, or breathlessness because the blood carries less oxygen. The cause cannot be identified from breathlessness alone.

Arrange a medical review if the symptom is recurring or changing. Note when it begins, the activity level, recovery time, associated cough or wheeze, chest discomfort, palpitations, swelling, fever, and any recent illness. Bring a list of medicines and describe smoking or occupational exposures.

Until assessed, pace yourself, take breaks, avoid known irritants, and do not push through chest pain, faintness, or severe breathlessness. Use only inhalers or other medicines prescribed for you. Assessment may include an examination, oxygen check, heart tracing, blood tests, or breathing tests depending on the pattern.

Call emergency services for sudden or severe breathlessness, breathlessness with chest pain, fainting, confusion, blue or grey lips, coughing blood, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Swelling of the face or throat, hives, or breathing difficulty after food, medicine, or a sting may indicate [Anaphylaxis](/conditions/anaphylaxis/) and needs immediate treatment.

Ask what causes are being considered, which tests are appropriate, what level of activity is reasonable now, how to manage symptoms during exertion, and which changes should prompt urgent review.