29th December 2024

Breathlessness

Reversible causes should always be considered and treated if present – for example, furosemide for pulmonary oedema, blood transfusions for anaemia, etc.

Non-pharmacological management techniques include use of a fan, opening a window, keeping the room cool, breathing techniques, posture and repositioning, encouragement to exercise and adaptation of the environment (e.g. setting up single-floor living or a micro-environment) to make living with breathlessness whilst carrying out daily activities easier.

Pharmacological management options include the following:

• Low-dose strong opioid (immediate-release preparation)
• Benzodiazepine if associated with acute anxiety (short-term use)
• Bronchodilator if partial airway obstruction, e.g. compressing tumour
• Oxygen may be considered in symptomatic hypoxia or in specific cases such as pulmonary hypertension, but there is limited evidence otherwise