What should you know about having trouble breathing?

Breathlessness may happen after exertion, during an infection, with an allergic reaction, or when anxiety changes the pace of breathing. Reflux can irritate the throat and create a tight or difficult-breathing sensation. Hyperthyroidism can cause breathlessness with a fast heartbeat, heat intolerance or tremor. Sleep-related breathing problems may cause snoring, witnessed pauses or morning headaches. Low mood, burnout, jet lag and insomnia can also alter sleep and breathing awareness, but they should not be assumed to explain a new or severe symptom.

A clinician will consider when the problem occurs, whether it is worse lying down or with activity, and whether there is cough, fever, wheezing, pain or swelling. They may examine your chest, measure oxygen levels and arrange further tests based on the pattern.

Stop exertion, sit upright and loosen tight clothing. Try to stay calm while taking gentle, unforced breaths. Move away from smoke or a suspected irritant. If you have a prescribed reliever inhaler or other breathing plan, follow those instructions. Do not use another person’s medicine. Arrange medical advice for breathing difficulty that is new, recurring, limiting normal activity, or accompanied by cough, fever or wheeze.

Call emergency services immediately for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, inability to speak in full sentences, confusion, fainting, sudden chest pain, or rapid worsening. Get urgent assessment for breathlessness with coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling, or a high fever. Keep the person sitting upright and do not leave them alone while help is coming. Do not drive if you are struggling to breathe or feel faint.

Ask: What could be causing my breathing difficulty? Do I need an oxygen check, chest examination or other tests? Could reflux, thyroid symptoms, sleep problems or anxiety be contributing? What changes should prompt emergency care, and what should I do if symptoms return at night or during activity?