Symptom guide
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing or feeling that you cannot get enough air. May indicate lung, heart, or other conditions.
Overview
Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is difficulty breathing or a sensation of not getting enough air. It can result from lung disease (asthma, COPD, infection), heart conditions, anxiety, anemia, or obesity.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for sudden, severe shortness of breath; chest pain; blue lips; or difficulty speaking. See a doctor for gradual onset, worsening, or persistent breathlessness.
What you should know
A pulmonologist evaluates lung causes; a cardiologist evaluates heart-related causes.
Treatment depends on the diagnosis—e.g.
inhalers for asthma, oxygen or pulmonary rehab for COPD.