Shortness of Breath
Never ignore new or sudden shortness of breath — it deserves a doctor's eye.
Breathlessness (dyspnoea) is the uncomfortable awareness of your own breathing. Common triggers include exertion, anxiety, asthma, infection, anaemia, or heart problems. New, severe, or progressive breathlessness always warrants medical assessment — the causes range from easily treated to life-threatening.
When to worry
Seek urgent medical care for any of the following:
- Sudden severe breathlessness at rest
- Chest pain, pressure, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw
- Blue-tinged lips or fingertips
- Coughing up blood
- Swollen calf that's tender or warm (possible clot)
- Breathlessness when lying flat that wakes you up
Safe self-care
Reasonable first steps while you wait for or decide on a consultation:
- Stop and sit upright — don't try to push through
- Focus on slow, pursed-lip breathing if anxiety is driving it
- Move to fresh air if indoors is stuffy or smoky
- If you have an asthma inhaler and it's an asthma pattern, use it as prescribed
- Track how breathlessness relates to activity to describe to the doctor
Which specialist treats shortness of breath?
Shortness of Breath — FAQ
Is breathlessness always a heart or lung problem?
No. Anaemia, anxiety, deconditioning, and thyroid problems can all cause it. A good workup looks at all of these rather than jumping to conclusions.
Can I have a video consultation for shortness of breath?
For chronic or mild symptoms, yes — a doctor can take your history and arrange tests. For sudden severe breathlessness, call emergency services instead.
Other symptoms
This page is general information, not medical advice for any specific person. If in doubt, book a consultation or seek emergency care.