Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is the feeling of having difficulty breathing or uncomfortable breathing. Most people experience shortness of breath if they exercise harder or do heavier work than is usual for them. In a healthy person, shortness of breath improves with rest. There are many physical disorders that may cause shortness of breath even when resting.

Shortness of breath occurs when the body needs more oxygen than the lungs and chest muscles are able to deliver. There are many possible causes.

Lung disorders that cause shortness of breath include:

• lung damage from smoking or exposure to dusts or chemicals
• asthma, emphysema, and other airway obstruction
• restrictive diseases such as fibrosis
• lung cancer
• pneumonia and other infections
• a collapsed lung and
• blood clots in the lung

Shortness of breath can also be caused by heart disease. A person with heart disease can have difficulty breathing when trying to do activities of daily living, like bathing or dressing. Breathing problems may occur only when this person is lying down or sleeping. It usually improves while sitting up or standing. This can be a sign of a serious problem.

Other causes of shortness of breath include:

• anemia
• a large amount of blood loss
• the effects of high altitude
• choking
• extremely swollen tonsils
• a severe allergic reaction
• rapid breathing due to feeling anxious and
• a brain lesion

If you have a hard time breathing or a marked change in your ability to exercise, consult your healthcare provider. If you are a smoker, stop now.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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