Indigestion and shortness of breath

Reflux can create a burning chest sensation, throat irritation, or coughing that feels uncomfortable when breathing. Bloating may also make the upper abdomen feel tight. These sensations can resemble breathing trouble, but true breathlessness has a wide range of possible causes.

Angina, asthma, acute bronchitis, anaemia, atrial fibrillation, COPD, bronchiectasis, and anaphylaxis can all affect breathing or chest comfort in different ways. The onset, activity level, wheeze, rash, palpitations, fever, and chest pressure are useful details for a clinician.

Stop exertion and sit upright while you assess how you feel. If symptoms are mild and clearly follow a meal, avoid lying down, loosen tight clothing, and note what happened. Do not drive yourself if you are significantly breathless, dizzy, confused, or experiencing chest pressure.

Arrange prompt medical advice for new breathlessness, breathlessness that is getting worse, or symptoms that return with activity. Bring a list of medicines and describe whether the sensation is difficulty drawing breath, chest tightness, or discomfort from bloating.

Call emergency services immediately for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, chest pressure, sweating with nausea, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder. A swollen tongue, facial swelling, hives, or sudden breathing difficulty may indicate anaphylaxis and requires emergency help.

Ask what examination or tests may distinguish reflux discomfort from a heart or lung problem, and whether your symptoms could be linked to asthma, anaemia, rhythm changes, or another condition. Tell the clinician when symptoms began, what activity or food preceded them, and whether they improve with rest.