shortness of breath on one side

Overview

Shortness of breath on one side means you feel like you cannot get enough air, and this feeling is stronger on one side of your chest than the other. It is a symptom, not a disease itself, and can point to a problem in the lung or the space around it on that side.

Shortness of breath that affects one side is less common than general shortness of breath, but it does happen. It can affect people of any age, though some causes are more likely at different ages.

It can affect anyone, but people with lung disease, smokers, those who have had recent surgery or long flights, and older adults are at higher risk for some causes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling short of breath, especially on one side
• Chest pain that gets worse when breathing deeply or coughing
• Cough (dry or with phlegm)
• Rapid breathing or feeling like you can’t catch your breath

Symptoms in children

• Fast or noisy breathing
• Flaring nostrils or grunting sounds
• Pulling in of the skin between the ribs when breathing
• Refusing to eat or drink, or being very tired

Symptoms in older adults

• Breathlessness that may be less obvious, like being more tired than usual
• Confusion or feeling suddenly weak
• Chest discomfort that might not be sharp pain

Causes

Main causes

• Pneumonia (lung infection) – infection fills the lung on one side with fluid and makes it harder to breathe.
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) – air leaks into the space outside the lung, causing part of the lung to collapse.
• Pleural effusion (fluid around the lung) – extra fluid builds up between the lung and the chest wall.
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) – a clot travels to the lung and blocks blood flow.
• Injury to the chest, like a rib fracture or bruise.

Risk factors

• Smoking or vaping
• Recent surgery, especially on the chest or abdomen
• Long periods of sitting, like a long flight or car trip (increases clot risk)
• Lung diseases such as COPD or asthma
• Weakened immune system, such as from cancer treatment or certain medicines
• Older age

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have sudden or severe shortness of breath – call your local emergency number right away.
• You have chest pain that doesn’t go away with rest.
• You cough up blood or have blue lips.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have mild breathlessness that lasts more than a few days.
• You have a fever and cough that aren’t getting better.
• You feel winded more easily than before.

Diagnosis

A doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history, listening to your lungs with a stethoscope, and pressing gently on your chest to check for pain or stiffness.

Tests that may be done

• Chest X-ray – a quick picture of your lungs to look for infection, fluid, or air leakage.
• Blood tests – to check for infection or a blood clot.
• CT scan – a more detailed scan if the X-ray isn’t clear.
• Pulse oximetry – a clip on your finger to measure oxygen levels.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will listen carefully to your breathing and may tap on your chest. You might need to go for imaging tests at the hospital. Most tests are painless and quick. You’ll be asked about your travel, any recent illnesses, and your home and work environment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. If it’s an infection, you may need antibiotics. If it’s a collapsed lung or fluid buildup, a doctor might need to drain it. For a blood clot, treatment involves medicines that thin your blood. Your doctor will create a plan that’s right for you.

Self-care at home

• Rest and don’t push yourself to do too much.
• Sit upright in a chair or sleep propped up with pillows to make breathing easier.
• Use a fan or open a window for fresh air – but don’t get too cold.
• Take all medicines exactly as prescribed.

Medical treatments

Medical treatments may include antibiotics for a bacterial infection, oxygen therapy to boost your oxygen levels, medicines that thin the blood for a clot, or procedures like thoracentesis (draining fluid) or chest tube insertion (for air or fluid). No specific drug names, doses, or brand names are listed here.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered for a collapsed lung that keeps coming back, or for severe chest injuries. Your doctor will discuss options if surgery is a possibility.

Living with this condition

Once the cause is treated, most people recover fully. In the meantime, take it easy. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or sudden movements that might worsen pain or breathlessness. Keep a diary of your symptoms to share with your doctor.

Lifestyle tips

• If you smoke, try to quit – smoking makes lung problems worse.
• Avoid secondhand smoke and other lung irritants like dust or strong fumes.
• Stay as active as your body allows – gentle walking can help your lungs work better.
• Get plenty of sleep to help your body heal.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you have a fluid buildup problem, your doctor may advise limiting salt. For exercise, start slow. Deep breathing exercises can strengthen your lungs. Always check with your doctor before starting a new activity.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling short of breath can be scary and may cause anxiety or stress. It’s normal to feel worried. Talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling – they can help. If you feel very anxious or depressed, ask about counselling or support groups.

Prevention

Not all causes can be prevented, but you can lower your risk. Don’t smoke, stay active, and avoid deep vein thrombosis by moving your legs during long trips. Get treatment for infections early.

Vaccines

Vaccines for flu and pneumonia can help prevent lung infections that cause shortness of breath on one side. Ask your doctor which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for shortness of breath on one side. If you have risk factors, talk to your doctor about lung health checks.

Complications

If left untreated

• Worsening of the underlying cause – for example, an infection can spread or a blood clot can block more blood flow.
• Chronic breathing problems or lung damage.
• Low oxygen levels that can affect your heart and brain.

Long-term outlook

With prompt treatment, most causes of shortness of breath on one side get better. Many people recover fully and can return to their normal activities. The key is to see a doctor early and follow your treatment plan.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.