Shortness of breath means feeling like it’s hard to get enough air or that breathing takes more effort than usual.
Doctors use this term because people describe breathing discomfort in different ways, such as tightness, air hunger, or feeling winded. Shortness of breath is a symptom, not a diagnosis.
It can happen suddenly or develop gradually.
Doctors most often use shortness of breath because of common causes such as:
Anxiety or panic
Asthma or airway sensitivity
Poor conditioning or recent inactivity
Respiratory infections, such as colds or bronchitis
Anemia or low oxygen delivery
Many causes are treatable or temporary.
People experiencing shortness of breath may notice:
Feeling winded with mild activity
Rapid breathing
Trouble taking a deep breath
Symptoms that worsen with stress or exertion
Symptoms can vary in intensity and timing.
Some common causes, such as anxiety or mild asthma, may not show up on basic tests. Doctors consider symptoms, patterns, and triggers together.
Anxiety can change breathing patterns, making breaths faster or shallower, which can increase the sensation of breathlessness.
This can be related to breathing mechanics, reflux, anxiety, or fluid shifts. Doctors look at timing and associated symptoms.
Illness, inactivity, anemia, or breathing conditions can reduce endurance, making everyday activities feel harder.
Doctors may evaluate breathing symptoms using:
Medical history and symptom timing
Physical exam
Oxygen level checks
Lung function tests if needed
Imaging or blood tests in some cases
Testing is guided by how symptoms present, not just their presence.
Shortness of breath is usually first evaluated by a primary care doctor.
Pulmonologist – for lung-related causes
Cardiologist – for heart-related causes
Allergist – for asthma or allergy-related breathing issues
Referral depends on findings and symptom patterns.
For many people, next steps may include:
Identifying triggers
Breathing or relaxation techniques
Treating asthma or infections if present
Gradual activity conditioning
Follow-up if symptoms continue
Many people see improvement once the cause is identified.
This page is for educational purposes only.
It does not diagnose any condition.
Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.