Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing or a sensation of not getting enough air, ranging from mild breathlessness on exertion to severe distress at rest.
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
Sudden or severe breathlessness, breathlessness at rest, chest pain, blue lips or fingertips, one-sided leg swelling
Lifestyle factors
Low fitness or deconditioning, excess body weight, smoking, poor posture, high altitude exposure
Nutritional factors
Iron deficiency anaemia reducing oxygen-carrying capacity, inadequate overall caloric or protein intake affecting respiratory muscle strength
Possible medical causes
Asthma, COPD, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, anaemia, panic attack
Next steps
Call emergency services immediately for sudden or severe breathlessness, chest pain, or blue-tinged lips; GP review for gradual or mild breathlessness
Related nutrients (1)
Iron deficiency anaemia reduces the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, causing breathlessness
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (6.4 mg iron per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (6.6 mg iron per cup cooked)
Supplement categories (1)
Corrects anaemia-related breathlessness once diagnosed by a GP; not a substitute for assessing cardiac or respiratory causes
Cautions: Do not supplement without testing; haemochromatosis contraindication; keep away from children
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.