What should you know about sudden shortness of breath?

Breathlessness is the feeling that breathing takes extra effort or that you cannot get enough air. Asthma can narrow the airways and cause wheeze, cough and chest tightness. Acute Bronchitis may irritate the airways, while COPD and Bronchiectasis can make airflow or mucus clearance difficult. Anaemia can reduce oxygen delivery and cause breathlessness with tiredness or a racing heartbeat. Heart-related causes include Angina and Atrial Fibrillation. Anaphylaxis can rapidly swell the throat or airways after an exposure.

The same sensation has different levels of urgency. Sudden onset, severity, triggers, chest symptoms, skin changes and the ability to speak in full sentences help clinicians judge the next step.

Stop exertion, sit upright and loosen tight clothing. Use a prescribed reliever inhaler or emergency allergy medicine according to your personal plan. Do not lie flat if breathing is difficult, and do not eat or drink if you are struggling to breathe. Ask someone to stay with you and arrange urgent help if symptoms do not settle quickly or if you are unsure of the cause.

Call emergency services for severe or worsening breathlessness, inability to speak normally, chest pain or pressure, fainting, blue or grey lips, confusion, coughing blood, or sudden swelling of the lips, tongue or throat. A sudden episode after a new food, medicine or sting may be Anaphylaxis. Do not drive yourself during severe symptoms.

Did the episode suggest an airway, heart, blood or allergic problem? What examinations or tests are appropriate? Which inhaler or emergency plan should I keep available, and what change means I should call for help?