How is shortness of breath treated?

Breathlessness can come from the lungs, heart, blood, muscles, weight-related strain or anxiety. COVID-19 may cause breathing symptoms alongside an infection. Heart failure can lead to breathlessness when fluid builds up, while iron deficiency anaemia can reduce oxygen delivery to tissues. Less common causes include lung cancer, mesothelioma or fluid around a lung.

A clinician may check your breathing rate, oxygen level, pulse, chest sounds and heart, then arrange blood tests or imaging when appropriate. Treatment may include an inhaler, antibiotics or another medicine for infection, diuretics for fluid related to heart failure, iron replacement for confirmed deficiency, or oxygen in a monitored setting. Anxiety-related breathing symptoms need assessment before being attributed to anxiety. Sit upright, rest and avoid exertion while arranging advice.

Call emergency services for sudden or severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, chest pressure, fainting, confusion, coughing blood, or inability to speak in full sentences. Seek prompt medical advice for new breathlessness, breathlessness at rest, worsening symptoms, fever, or swelling of the legs. Do not drive yourself if breathing is severely difficult.

Ask which cause is being investigated, what your oxygen reading means, how to use any inhaler, and what change should trigger urgent help. Mention whether symptoms began suddenly, occur when lying down or walking, and whether you have chest pain, cough, fever, ankle swelling or recent illness.