What should I do if I’m experiencing severe shortness of breath?

Heavy breathing (dyspnea) is a common respiratory symptom encountered in daily life. There are numerous potential causes of dyspnea, and prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential upon its onset; otherwise, nasal congestion or other complications may develop. So, what should one do when experiencing dyspnea?

What to Do When Experiencing Dyspnea

Upon noticing dyspnea, individuals are advised to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and undergo diagnostic tests—including electrocardiogram (ECG), chest CT scan, and abdominal ultrasound—to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. If the dyspnea stems from a neuropsychiatric disorder (e.g., neurosis), medications such as oryzanol (gamma-oryzanol) and mecobalamin—nutrients supporting nerve health—may be prescribed, alongside antidepressants or anxiolytics as needed. Adequate rest and avoidance of excessive physical or mental fatigue are also recommended. In cases associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), antibiotic therapy may be indicated to treat concurrent infection.

“Dyspnea” refers to labored or difficult breathing. It commonly occurs when pulmonary function is impaired to varying degrees—especially during physical exertion, when oxygen demand increases (e.g., climbing stairs, carrying heavy loads, or running). The increased oxygen requirement leads to accelerated respiratory rate, resulting in clinically apparent dyspnea—characterized by both increased breathing frequency and deeper breaths (increased tidal volume).

In pathological conditions, dyspnea may be accompanied by wheezing—or even audible wheezes. For instance, during an acute asthma attack, high-pitched whistling sounds (wheezes) may be heard upon auscultation. Thus, dyspnea can represent either a normal physiological response—such as increased respiration during exercise—or a pathological manifestation. In disease states, elevated respiratory rate, shortness of breath (dyspnea), and wheezing collectively constitute clinical “dyspnea.” We hope this information proves helpful.