Signs of a breathing pattern disorder.
Breathing pattern problems are easy to miss. Tests can be normal while the pattern itself is driving symptoms.
People often notice some of:
- Shortness of breath at rest or after little effort
- Feeling unable to get a full breath
- Frequent sighing, yawning, or throat clearing
- Chest tightness or a restriction in the throat
- Light-headedness, tingling in hands or face
- Tiredness that does not match activity
- Exercise that feels harder than fitness would suggest
- Anxiety or panic that builds with breathlessness
- Pain or stiffness that worsens with a high-chest breathing pattern
These can overlap with asthma, anxiety, chronic pain, COPD, long COVID, and sport. Assessment looks at the pattern, not only the diagnosis.