Difficulty Breathing
Dyspnea
What it is
This is a feeling of not getting enough air or being unable to breathe normally. It may be mild or severe, occur at rest or during activity, and begin suddenly or gradually. It may cause faster breathing or a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest. Symptoms may be more or less severe depending on heat, physical activity, stress or anxiety. In children, signs may include faster breathing, increased effort to breathe, discomfort, agitation or crying.
Related sheet available: Asthma
What you can do at home
What to do
- Loosen clothing around the waist, neck and chest.
- Sit comfortably with a straight back, or in a semi-seated position leaning slightly forward.
- Place a cushion behind your back if needed.
For children
- Hold the child if this provides them comfort.
- Speak softly to the child and stay close to them to provide reassurance.
What to avoid
- Avoid lying down completely flat.
When to seek medical attention
Difficulty breathing when moving around or lying down
Difficulty breathing that developed gradually
Reduced appetite or thirst
Unusual tiredness or lack of energy
Difficulty carrying out usual activities
Swollen legs or feet
Fever with a cough and greenish mucus (phlegm)
For a person aged 75 or older:
fever and difficulty carrying out one or two activities of daily living (e.g., cooking or washing)
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Severe or sudden chest pain
A very rapid heartbeat
Seizures (uncontrollable shaking of the body)
Coughing up blood, pinkish mucus or pink frothy mucus
Recent surgery or trauma
Rapid changes in overall condition:
- unusual tiredness (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake
- not responding normally to what is happening around them
- confusion, agitation or unusual behaviour
Very slow or very rapid breathing
Difficulty breathing that does not go away or gets worse
Difficulty breathing and one or more of the following signs:
- difficulty speaking, coughing or swallowing
- blue or bluish lips or fingers (cyanosis)
- a high-pitched or whistling sound when breathing (stridor)
- the chest or abdomen pulling inward with each breath (retractions)
- nostrils flaring with each breath
Fever in people at higher risk:
- peope with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised)
- people who are pregnant
- infants younger than 3 months