Heavy breathing can feel like suffocation, making each breath a struggle. For some people, heavy breathing feels like pressure on the chest, as if an elephant is sitting on them.
These sensations can be terrifying, and the panic they produce can make heavy breathing worse. But heavy breathing does not necessarily point to a serious health problem, so there is no need for panic.
A doctor can make a conclusive diagnosis, but here are the most common causes of heavy breathing.
1. Fever or overheating
When it is hot, the body's metabolic demands increase, and it needs more oxygen. Heavy breathing may help gather more oxygen, but it also helps to release heat and can lower body temperature.
People with a fever may experience heavy breathing or shortness of breath, particularly when they are carrying out activities. This also happens in intense heat.
As long as the symptoms go away after a few deep breaths and a few minutes of relaxation, they are no cause for concern.
However, if heavy breathing gets worse, or is accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and confusion, people should seek prompt medical care.
2. Illness or infection
A wide range of infections can make it harder to breathe, triggering heavy breathing.
In most cases, these infections are relatively minor. However, if symptoms are severe, accompanied by a high fever, or do not clear up within a few days, people should seek medical care.
Some infectious causes of heavy breathing include: