Overview
Breathlessness can have cardiac and non-cardiac causes. New, persistent or worsening symptoms deserve medical assessment. This page provides general education and cannot determine the cause of an individual’s symptoms.
Common symptoms
Symptoms vary between people and may overlap with other conditions. Depending on the concern, they can include chest discomfort, palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness, reduced exercise tolerance or swelling. Some people have few or no symptoms.
How a cardiologist may assess it
Assessment may include discussion of your symptoms, medical and family history, medication, risk factors and a physical examination. Your cardiologist will decide which investigations are appropriate.
Possible tests
Testing may include an ECG, echocardiogram, exercise-based assessment, portable rhythm monitoring, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring or other investigations. Not every test is needed for every patient.
General management overview
Management depends on the cause and may involve monitoring, risk-factor changes, medication or referral for other treatment. Your clinician will discuss options relevant to your situation; do not change treatment based on website information.