define "shortness of breath"

[ChesterCookie]

I always see "shortness of breath."  how does one define this?

would I be considered short of breath if I am simply aware of increased respirations when going from sitting/lying to standing, or walking on a level field.  Is just the awareness of breathing cosidered shortness?  Or are we talking, one would need to sit down or stop their activity, have open mouthed breathing and take a while to rest before being normal again.

I do notice my breathing increased with simple things, like standing from sitting or walking uphill slightly, but I still breathe through my nose and I can continue what I'm doing and feel normal again if I walk on a level area.

sometimes it's a terrible thing to be so aware of bodyily changes

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

Mild changes in shortness of breath will be difficult to perceive. As regards anxiety, there is an entity called Chronic Hyperventilation Syndrome. It is characterized by hyperventilation for no apparent reason, frequent yawning, palpitations, dizziness, sweating, fainting, depression, and cold sweats. To know if your breathing is pathological or not can be determined by a respiratory rate, Pulse Ox to see for oxygen saturation and finally lung function tests could further help in evaluation. If troublesome consult your doctor.

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.

[ChesterCookie]

so I wouldn't say my breathing is UNCOMFORTABLE, per se, more so I am AWARE of it.  Aware that the respiratory rate is increased, or my work of breathing is increased.  So is that shortness of breath.  And how does anxiety confound this, because I am highly anxious these days.

[caregiver222]

Another term would be "air hunger". When this develops you know it. It is frightening. Increased respirations are not "shortness of breath".

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

Shortness of breath is the uncomfortable sensation of breathing. The feeling like you cannot get enough air. There are grades to this symptom, like Shortness of breath with exercise, Shortness of breath with walking two blocks or Shortness of breath with rest. The respiratory rate is also increased in the process. If troublesome consult your doctor to rule out cardiac or lung disorders.

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.