Breathlessness

Everyone feels out of breath at times. It’s normal to get out of breath when you exert yourself. This information is for people who feel breathless at other times too, and want to find out more.

Breathlessness information

Man singing

What is breathlessness?

Here we explain the different types of breathlessness, how breathing and thoughts about breathlessness interact and where you can get support for your breathlessness.
Man sitting down

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.
Woman exercising

Living well with breathlessness

Read our top tips to help you live well with breathlessness.
Person breathing

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.

Breathlessness resources and support

Find resources and support to help you manage your breathlessness

Image of the front cover of the Living with breathlessness booklet. The front cover shows the title Living with breathlessness and an image of a woman breathing in.

Living with breathlessness booklet

Learn all about breathlessness.

People doing chair based exercise

Keep Active programme

If you have a lung condition, being active can help you manage your condition, feel better and improve your quality of life.

Singing for Lung Health group

Groups + support

Find support in your area, including support groups, exercise, and singing for lung health.

Support for breathlessness

Get in touch with our friendly helpline team for more information about breathlessness and practical support. 

symptom diary thumbnail

My symptom diary

Use this resource to record and track your symptoms. 

Did you find this information useful?

We use your comments to improve our information. We cannot reply to comments left on this form. If you have health concerns or need clinical advice, call our helpline on 0300 222 5800 between 9am and 5pm on a weekday or email them.