breathlessness

Breathlessness, also called shortness of breath or dyspnoea, is when a person temporarily or permanently feels that they cannot get enough air when breathing. In severe breathlessness, people have a sensation of tightness or are even afraid of suffocating. Breathing is labored and it is difficult to breathe deeply. Breathlessness occurs in lung diseases like asthma or pneumonia, but also during a heart attack or in extreme obesity.

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Please note that we do not provide individual advice on matters of health. You can read about where to find help and support in Germany in our information “How can I find self-help groups and information centers?

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