Heart pain and shortness of breath

Breathlessness may accompany angina or an abnormal heart rhythm such as atrial fibrillation. Lung conditions including asthma, acute bronchitis, bronchiectasis, or COPD can also cause difficulty breathing, sometimes with chest tightness or pain. Anaemia can reduce oxygen delivery and leave you short of breath, while anaphylaxis can rapidly affect breathing and circulation.

A symptom pattern does not establish a diagnosis. Clinicians consider whether pain is pressure-like, sharp, movement-related, triggered by exertion, or linked with cough, wheeze, fever, palpitations, rash, or swelling.

Stop exertion, sit upright, loosen tight clothing, and ask someone to stay with you if symptoms are significant. Use a prescribed reliever inhaler only as directed. Do not exercise through chest pain or rely on an internet symptom check. A healthcare professional may check oxygen levels, heart rhythm, breathing, and blood tests.

Call emergency services now for chest pressure, severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, sudden weakness, coughing blood, or swelling of the lips or tongue. Emergency help is also needed when symptoms start suddenly or worsen quickly. Arrange same-day review for new or recurring chest pain with breathlessness, even if it settles with rest.

Could my symptoms be cardiac, respiratory, or related to anaemia? Do I need an ECG, chest assessment, or blood tests? Which changes mean I should call emergency services? Should my inhaler or other medicines be reviewed?