What is breathlessness?
Breathlessness is shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. It can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Lung conditions such as asthmaAsthma is a disease where the airway becomes inflamed. It can cause symptoms like wheeze, shortness of breath, cough, or chest tightness. or COPD
- Heart conditions
- Obesity
- Anxiety
- Other conditions such as anaemiaAnemia is a condition where the blood has a reduced ability to carry oxygen, typically due to a lower than normal number of red blood cells or a deficiency in hemoglobin, kidney problems or thyroid conditions
Managing your breathlessness depends on what is causing it. It is often linked to a health condition but can be a result of pregnancy, a hard workout, being at a high altitude, wearing tight clothes or not moving around for long periods of time.
What will my GP do now if I have breathlessness?
Your GPGeneral Practitioner will assess your health and history to find the cause of your symptoms. Your GP will talk to you about your lifestyle habits. Your GP may also arrange for more tests to get a better idea of why you might feel this way. Depending on the results of these tests, your GP may ask you to take more tests or will let you know how to treat your symptoms.
Your GP may talk to you about completing a Shortness of Breath Action Plan. This will help you and those around you to manage your breathlessness.
What will my GP do in the future if I have breathlessness?
Your GP may see you often to check your symptoms and see if you are feeling better. If you still have shortness of breath after your treatment, your GP may refer you to a specialist.
