Tired easily and short of breath: what to know

Breathlessness may appear during activity or at rest, and tiredness may develop gradually or suddenly. Anaemia can reduce oxygen delivery and leave someone fatigued or breathless. Asthma and acute bronchitis can affect airflow, while COPD or bronchiectasis may cause persistent respiratory symptoms. Angina can cause breathlessness or pressure with exertion; atrial fibrillation may bring palpitations and reduced exercise tolerance. Anaphylaxis is a sudden emergency, often with swelling, wheezing or widespread symptoms.

These possibilities cannot be sorted safely from symptoms alone. The timing, triggers, cough, chest discomfort, fever, swelling, palpitations, medication history and existing conditions all help guide examination and testing.

Book a medical assessment if the symptom is new, persistent, worsening or limiting normal activity. Note when breathlessness begins, whether it occurs at rest or with exertion, and any cough, wheeze, fever, chest discomfort, faintness or racing heartbeat. Bring a list of medicines and inhalers. Until assessed, pace activity, avoid smoke and stop exertion if symptoms increase.

Call emergency services for severe or rapidly worsening breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, inability to speak comfortably, fainting, new confusion, severe chest pressure, or sudden swelling of the face, tongue or throat. Urgent assessment is also needed for breathlessness at rest, coughing blood, or symptoms after a possible allergic exposure.

Ask which examination or tests are needed to check the lungs, heart and blood count. Ask whether your symptoms fit asthma, anaemia or another condition, how to use any prescribed inhaler, and which changes should prompt immediate care.