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When you are breathless (or short of breath), you
have the impression that you are not inhaling enough air.
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Temporary breathlessness after moderate exercise
is normal, depending on your level of fitness. However,
breathlessness that occurs during normal activities warrants
attention.
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Breathlessness may be caused by problems related
to the lungs or respiratory tract, the heart, the blood (anaemia),
the digestive tract (discomfort caused by bloating), or by
psychological problems.
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When to consult a
physician
You should consult a physician IMMEDIATELY if:
- you are breathless even when resting or making a limited
effort
- breathlessness is accompanied by:
- fever or unusual coughing
- chest pain when you inhale
- laboured breathing
- swelling of the face or throat
- itching or a burning sensation on the skin
You should consult a physician AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, at your
convenience, if:
- the breathlessness seems to worsen
- you wake up breathless at night
- your ankles start to swell
- you experience abnormal fatigue
You should consult a physician FAIRLY SOON if you:
- become breathless more readily than previously when engaging in
the same type of activity
- have a chronic cough or discharge matter from the throat or
lungs every day by coughing or hawking and spitting, you may have a
chronic respiratory problem. If so, consult your physician
regularly.
If you still have concerns or if you wish to obtain more
information, contact Info-Santé. For a directory (in French) of
Info-Santé telephone numbers, .
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Self-care
- Rest helps to reduce the impression of breathlessness stemming
from overwork.
- Adopt a comfortable position, such as sitting leaning slightly
forward, which can greatly help to reduce breathing
difficulty.
- If breathlessness appears to be linked to poor physical
condition, resume physical activity very gradually on the advice of
your physician.
- If you smoke, you can get help to kick the habit before you
experience more serious lung problems.
