Continuous breathlessness and your health: How to recognise serious heart or lung issues

Feeling short of breath during physical activity, such as climbing stairs or exercising, is often normal, as your heart and lungs work harder to supply oxygen to your muscles. Occasional breathlessness is usually harmless, but frequent, persistent, or unexplained episodes, especially at rest or with minimal effort, can indicate underlying heart or lung problems. Paying attention to warning signs such as chronic cough, chest tightness, wheezing, or severe fatigue is crucial. Early recognition and timely medical evaluation allow for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management, helping prevent complications and protect long-term cardiovascular and respiratory health. According to a study published NIH, found that individuals reporting dyspnea (shortness of breath) were 2 to 9 tim