Breathlessness information
What is breathlessness?
Feeling short of breath from time to time is healthy and normal – but sometimes it can be a sign of something more serious. Here we explain the different types of breathlessness, how breathing and thoughts about breathlessness interact and where you can get support for your breathlessness.
Why am I short of breath? Shortness of breath causes
Shortness of breath is a symptom of many conditions. Find out more about why you could be short of breath.
Diagnosing the cause of breathlessness
Find out how the cause of breathlessness is diagnosed. We explain what will happen when you see your doctor, the questions they might ask, tests they’ll do and how long it will take to get a diagnosis.
Treating breathlessness
Read about the treatments available to control and improve your breathlessness. Your GP can prescribe treatments or refer you to services to improve your breathlessness.
How can I manage my breathlessness?
If you're living with breathlessness, there's lots of things you can do to help reduce it. Find out how to manage breathlessness.
Positions for obstructive lung conditions
In obstructive lung disease, it takes longer to empty your lungs. Try our suggestions to reduce your breathlessness.
Positions for restrictive lung conditions
In restrictive lung disease, you cannot fill your lungs with air because your lungs are restricted from fully expanding. Try our suggestions to help reduce your breathlessness.
Living well with breathlessness
Read our top tips to help you live well with breathlessness.
Take our breath test
Feeling short of breath from time to time is healthy and normal – but sometimes it can be a sign of something more serious. If you’re worried about breathlessness, take our quick online breath test.