Symptom Checker

  • When to seek medical advice

    • Shortness of breath that can't be explained by rigorous exertion or exercise requires a prompt, accurate diagnosis.

    Get emergency medical care if you experience shortness of breath that:

    • Began suddenly and affects your ability to function
    • Is accompanied by chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes
    • Is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting

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Shortness of breath

Find possible causes of shortness of breath based on specific factors. Check one or more factors on this page that apply to your symptom.

  • New or recent

  • Ongoing or recurrent

  • Trauma or injury

  • Upper respiratory illness

  • Allergens or irritants

  • Anxiety or stress

  • Coughing, sneezing or deep breathing

  • Exposure to cold air

  • Mild to moderate exertion

  • Smoking

  • Chest pain, tightness or discomfort

  • Cough that produces blood

  • Cough that produces sputum

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Dry cough

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Fever or chills

  • Headache

  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat

  • Nausea

  • Pale or bluish skin

  • Rapid weight gain

  • Sweating

  • Swelling in legs, ankles and feet

  • Trembling

  • Wheezing

 

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