Introduction
Breathlessness may be related to the heart, lungs, fitness, anaemia or other conditions. A careful history and examination help identify whether cardiac tests are useful.
Assessment and next steps
It helps to know whether breathlessness is new, how far you can walk or climb compared with usual, and whether it occurs lying flat or wakes you at night. Swollen ankles, a cough, chest symptoms, a fast heartbeat or dizziness can also provide useful clues.
Depending on the pattern, assessment may include an ECG, blood tests, an echocardiogram, a rhythm monitor or other investigations. The intention is to establish the cause and the safest next step, not simply to order every possible test.
Our experience
- New, severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness needs urgent assessment.
- The relationship to exercise, lying flat or palpitations is important.
- An ECG, echocardiogram or rhythm monitor may be considered where appropriate.
Patient note
“Breathlessness is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The goal is to understand its pattern and cause before choosing tests.”
FAQ
When is breathlessness urgent?
Seek urgent help if breathlessness is severe, sudden, occurs with chest pain or faintness, or is getting rapidly worse.
What information is useful to bring?
It helps to describe how your walking distance or stair climbing has changed, whether you need extra pillows at night, and whether there is swelling, chest discomfort or palpitations.
Can a remote consultation be suitable?
Sometimes, particularly when previous test results are available. The clinic can advise whether an in-person examination is more appropriate.