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What It Means

What Shortness of Breath Means

Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea, is an uncomfortable awareness that breathing is difficult, insufficient, or unusually rapid. It may feel like air hunger, chest tightness, or needing to work harder than usual to breathe. Some people notice it when trying to take a deep breath and may feel unable to get enough air.

Emergency Warning Signs

When Shortness of Breath Is an Emergency

SEEK EMERGENCY HELP

Get immediate medical help

Call emergency services immediately for severe or sudden shortness of breath, especially if you have blue or gray lips or skin, cannot speak in full sentences, fainting, confusion, severe chest pain or pressure, coughing blood, or signs of a severe allergic reaction. Do not drive yourself if you are struggling to breathe or feel faint.

  • Sudden shortness of breath that is severe or rapidly worsening.
  • Shortness of breath at rest or an inability to speak in full sentences.
  • Shortness of breath with blue or gray lips, fainting, confusion, or extreme drowsiness.
  • Shortness of breath with severe chest pain or pressure, coughing blood, or a racing or irregular heartbeat.
  • Shortness of breath with facial or throat swelling, wheezing, or another sign of a severe allergic reaction.
  • Shortness of breath after prolonged immobility or recent surgery, especially with one-sided leg swelling.

Possible Causes

Possible Causes of Shortness of Breath

  • Strenuous exercise, hot or high-altitude environments, or temporary deconditioning can cause short-lived breathlessness.
  • Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, bronchitis, or other lung infections can make breathing difficult.
  • Heart failure, an abnormal heart rhythm, coronary artery disease, or other heart conditions can cause shortness of breath, especially with activity or when lying down.
  • Anemia can reduce oxygen delivery and lead to breathlessness, fatigue, or a fast heartbeat.
  • Anxiety or panic can cause rapid breathing and a feeling of not getting enough air, but it should not be assumed to be the cause until urgent medical problems are considered.
  • A blood clot in the lung, a collapsed lung, a severe allergic reaction, or another serious condition can cause sudden shortness of breath.

Diseases & Conditions

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