Shortness of breath (Dyspnoea)

At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our cardiology and respiratory specialists work together to evaluate and treat shortness of breath, also known as dyspnoea. Using advanced diagnostic testing and a collaborative approach, our team aims to identify the underlying cause of breathlessness and develop a personalised plan for care.

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Shortness of breath is the sensation of not being able to breathe comfortably or get enough air. While it may occur occasionally during physical exertion, persistent or unexplained breathlessness can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, particularly involving the heart or lungs.

You may benefit from an assessment for shortness of breath (dyspnoea) if you:

Become breathless with minimal exertion

Feel short of breath while lying flat

Experience sudden or severe breathlessness

Feel tightness in your chest

Have a history of heart or lung disease

Dyspnoea is most often related to heart or lung diseases, so a comprehensive evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause.
Symptoms of dyspnoea may include:

Difficult breathing or feeling unable to get enough air

Rapid, shallow, or laboured breathing

Chest tightness or discomfort

Breathlessness at rest or during light activity

Worsening symptoms when lying down

Unexplained breathlessness may occur during activity, at rest, or suddenly without warning. While it can sometimes be linked to exertion or anxiety, persistent or unexplained breathlessness may signal an underlying cardiac or respiratory condition. Early assessment can help to identify the cause and provide the right answers.

Associated symptoms may include:

Palpitations

Dizziness

Cough

Wheezing

Swelling in the legs

You should seek urgent medical attention if shortness of breath is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, fainting, or confusion.
Dyspnoea and unexplained breathlessness can arise from a wide range of conditions. Most often, they are linked to problems with the heart or lungs.

What cardiac conditions can cause shortness of breath?
Heart failure

Coronary artery disease

Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias)

Cardiomyopathy

Heart valve disease
What respiratory conditions can cause shortness of breath?
Asthma

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Pneumonia

Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)

Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

Interstitial lung disease
What other conditions can cause dyspnoea?
Severe allergic reactions

Anxiety or panic disorders

Obesity

Muscle weakness from inactivity
Symptoms can sometimes overlap. It is important to speak to our clinicians to determine whether the cause is cardiac, respiratory, or both.
Your doctor at Mayo Clinic will take a full medical history and a thorough physical examination to diagnose your dyspnoea. If needed, our clinicians will recommend specific tests based on your symptoms.

These tests may include:

Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) to see how well your heart and lungs work during activity

Spirometry (lung function test) to determine your lung function and whether there is an obstruction in your lungs

An ECG to assess your heart rhythm and electrical activity

An echocardiogram to check the structure and function of your heart

Blood tests to check for anaemia, infection, or markers of heart strain

With support from cardiology and respiratory professionals, we will determine if your unexplained breathlessness is due to cardiac, respiratory, or a combination of causes.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your shortness of breath. Because causes can vary, your consultant may recommend several tests to confirm your diagnosis.

Treatment options may include:

Medication to improve lung or heart function

Inhaled medications for airway conditions

Treatment of abnormal heart rhythms

Anticoagulation therapy if deemed appropriate

Lifestyle modifications and risk factor management

Your Mayo Clinic specialist will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to optimise your symptoms, minimise your risk, and support your long-term health and well-being.
To help prevent the start or continuation of unexpected breathlessness, you can:

Stop smoking

Stay away from pollutants

Avoid extreme temperatures

Exercise regularly

Take any prescribed medications correctly and consistently

Regularly check in on your breathing

Private health insurance

Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Vitality Health, and WPA. Self-pay appointments are also available.

Private assessment for unexplained breathlessness in London

If you are experiencing dyspnoea or unexplained breathlessness and would like a specialist assessment, our expert team is here to help answer questions, identify the cause of your symptoms, and provide a personalised treatment plan. Request an appointment with us today.

Shortness of breath (Dyspnoea)

What cardiac conditions can cause shortness of breath?

What respiratory conditions can cause shortness of breath?

What other conditions can cause dyspnoea?

Private health insurance

Private assessment for unexplained breathlessness in London