Symptom

Breathing difficulty

Breathing difficulty means feeling that breathing is more heavy, tight, or uncomfortable than usual. The symptom can appear, for example, as shortness of breath, wheezing, faster breathing, shallow breathing, or a feeling of mucus in the lungs. For some, breathing difficulty can come on suddenly; for others, it develops gradually, for example during exertion or after a cold.

In Finland, the most common causes of breathing difficulty are asthma, bronchitis, respiratory tract infections related to infections, and allergies. In children, breathing difficulties are often related to asthma or respiratory infections, and may also appear as coughing, mucus, or fatigue. In adults, the cause may be, for example, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, or more rarely more serious causes such as pulmonary embolism.

Breathing difficulty is concerning if it is associated with severe shortness of breath at rest, chest pain, blueness in the lips or face, reduced level of consciousness, or if breathing feels very difficult. A child’s sudden breathing difficulty, clearly faster breathing, or wheezing also requires prompt assessment. If your own or a loved one’s condition is worrying, it is always advisable to seek assessment from a healthcare professional.

Practitioners – Breathing difficulty

Frequently asked questions

When should you see a doctor for breathing difficulty?

If breathing difficulty is severe, is accompanied by chest pain, blueness, confusion, or the situation worsens quickly, you should seek medical care immediately. Even in uncertain situations, it is worth seeking a professional assessment.

Can breathing difficulty be caused by asthma even if I have not been diagnosed with it before?

Asthma can also begin in adulthood, and breathing difficulty may be its first symptom. If asthma or other lung diseases are suspected, it is a good idea to seek examinations in healthcare.

How do I recognize breathing difficulty in a child?

A child’s breathing difficulty may show as faster, shallow, noisy breathing, fatigue, or mucus. If the symptoms are worrying or worsen, contact a healthcare professional.

Can breathing difficulty be caused by allergies?

Yes, allergies can cause swelling in the airways and mucus, which may feel like breathing difficulty. If the symptoms are new or worsen, seek a professional assessment.