Managing Shortness of Breath

Feeling short of breath is frightening and uncomfortable. You may get panicky and anxious as you try to breathe normally. This unpleasant feeling is common with cancer. Sometimes it is caused by a condition that will improve with treatment, such as a low blood count or COPD. Anxiety about your cancer can also make you feel short of breath – which, in turn, may increase your anxiety and your breathing problems. Don’t suffer in silence. We have a team ready to support you and direct you to resources.

The experts at Cancer Care Ontario have created a guide for people who have cancer-related shortness of breath. Patients, their family, friends or caregivers can use the guide. While it is a good way to learn more, it does not replace advice from your health care team.