Description
Shortness of breath is a subjective feeling of breathlessness. It is often described by sufferers as difficulty in taking in a deep breath, blowing it out, or catching one’s breath. There may be a sensation of tightness or heaviness of the chest that prevents adequate air exchange.

Your physician or medical provider will be better able to help you if you can clearly explain what you are experiencing. Answering the following questions prior to your medical visit will assist your physician or medical provider in making a diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Questions

• What do you mean by shortness of breath?
• How long does your shortness of breath last?
• Is shortness of breath a new, daily, or recurring problem?
• What triggers your shortness of breath?
• What makes it worse?
• What can you do to ease your breathing?
• Are you short of breath at rest, with exertion, or with lying down?
• Are their any other problems associated with your shortness of breath?
• Do you have chest pain or heaviness? Is it associated with activity?
• Do you have palpitations (sensation of your heart beating rapidly, erratically or skipping beats)? Do you feel that you will black out?
• Do you sharp, stabbing pains that prevent you from taking a deep breath?
• Do you have swelling in your legs or abdomen?
• Do you have to sleep with your head upright?
• Is your shortness of breath related to meals?
• Do you have heart burn?
• Do you have difficulty swallowing?
• Do you have a fever, cough, post nasal drip, chest congestion, or increased mucus production?
• Do you have anxiety or panic attacks? Does it occur before or after the shortness of breath starts?
• Are you a smoker?
• Have you had any occupational exposures such as chemicals, asbestos, or coal dust?
• Have you had unintentional weight loss?

Important Points to Consider
Any changes in your ability to breath comfortably require an urgent visit with your doctor. When symptoms accelerate rapidly, you may need an emergency visit as this may lead to severe respiratory distress. If shortness of breath is a chronic or recurrent condition, you will need a clear understanding of your diagnosis and treatment plan, and when to return for medical follow-up.

Related topics
Managing Shortness of Breath
Breathing Exercise for Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis