Labored breathing can result from many conditions. Some causes, like physical exertion, are easily identifiable and treatable. Other causes, such as pneumonia or congestive heart failure, may be more severe. While “labored breathing” is not a medical term, it generally indicates breathing that requires more effort than usual.

Treatment for labored breathing varies depending on the cause. Some people may only need to avoid triggers, such as allergens. However, others may require more intensive medical treatment.

Read on to learn more about what causes labored breathing and how you and your doctor can address it.

There are many causes of labored breathing. Some are short-lived, while others may be chronic heart and lung conditions. Identifying and managing the cause of your labored breathing will contribute to a positive quality of life.

Some possible causes of labored breathing include:

Depending on the cause, labored breathing may occur with other symptoms. These symptoms can include:

Labored breathing alongside blue or pale lips, fingernails, or gums may indicate a lack of oxygen circulating through your body. Chest pain, nausea, lightheadedness, or sweating at rest may signal a heart attack.

These conditions are emergencies and require immediate treatment from medical professionals.

Diagnosing the cause of labored breathing starts with an assessment of your medical history and a physical examination. Your doctor will listen to your heart and lungs and take vital signs. This initial exam will help your doctor determine any necessary testing to pinpoint the cause of your labored breathing.

Your doctor may use a chest X-ray to check for pneumonia and other problems. CT or MRI scans may also be necessary.

Pulmonary function tests can help doctors determine how well your lungs function and may help rule out certain conditions. These tests may include:

More invasive tests may be necessary, including biopsy, bronchoscopy, and thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss your testing and treatment plan details with you.

Treatment for labored breathing depends on your diagnostic test results. You may receive anti-inflammatory medications, oxygen therapy, or continuous positive airway pressure equipment to use at home.

Other treatments will be more specific to the underlying cause of your labored breathing. For example, lung cancer may require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. People with asthma may need bronchodilator medication to help widen their airways.

In addition, your doctor may refer you to pulmonary rehabilitation services to improve your lung health. These programs provide interdisciplinary teams that include doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and nutritionists.

One of the most important things you can do to help your labored breathing is to avoid exposure to pollutants and tobacco smoke. If you smoke, quitting is essential.

If labored breathing occurs when lying flat, try sleeping in a semi-reclined position. You can use a recliner or a wedge pillow to achieve this position.

The outlook for people with labored breathing depends on the underlying cause. Some conditions that cause labored breathing are self-limiting or relatively minor, while others may be life threatening.

Seeking treatment from a medical professional and following your treatment plan can help improve your outlook.

If you develop labored breathing without an identifiable cause, contact your doctor. You may be developing a serious respiratory condition.

If labored breathing occurs with other severe symptoms, such as chest pain, pale lips, or pale nail beds, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

Here are a few other questions people commonly ask about labored breathing. Thomas Johnson, PA-C, has medically reviewed the answers.

If you experience unexpected labored breathing that is severe or persistent, seek immediate medical treatment. It may be a sign of a serious or life threatening condition.

You may be able to treat labored breathing by avoiding irritating factors, such as pollen, pollutants, or heavy exercise. In other cases, a medical professional may need to treat labored breathing with medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, or other more intensive therapies.

Labored breathing may result from many different conditions, from exercise to COPD to lung cancer. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing techniques can strengthen your lungs and help you feel more in control of your breathing. Depending on the underlying cause, additional medical treatment may be necessary.

Contact your doctor if you experience persistent or severe labored breathing. They can help you determine the cause and the appropriate treatment plan.

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