Shortness of breath: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services if breathing is severe, began suddenly, or is getting worse quickly.

   Emergency help is also needed if breathlessness occurs with:

   • Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
   • Blue, grey, or unusually pale lips or skin
   • Fainting, confusion, extreme drowsiness, or difficulty staying awake
   • Inability to speak in full sentences
   • Choking or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
   • Coughing up blood, especially with chest pain or a swollen leg

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day medical advice for new breathlessness at rest, a clear worsening of an existing breathing problem, or breathlessness with fever, wheezing, or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

   You should also seek prompt care if you are pregnant, recently had surgery, or have been immobile and develop unexplained breathlessness.

   Gradual breathlessness is still worth discussing, even if it does not feel urgent.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is getting rapidly more short of breath, or has gained several pounds in a few days with swelling
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine appointment if the symptom keeps returning, lasts longer than expected after an illness, or limits walking, stairs, sleep, work, or other usual activities.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is more tired or breathless than usual doing things they used to manage
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Shortness of breath. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.