“Breathlessness stops me doing everything”
19th May 2026
Breathlessness is a common and upsetting symptom for people living with serious illnesses. It can make everyday activities harder, reduce quality of life and increase the need for healthcare. To improve treatments and support services, it is important to understand how people experience breathlessness in daily life. In this study, researchers explored the experiences of people living with long-term breathlessness and looked at how the condition affects them and what can make it worse.
The researchers interviewed adults with chronic breathlessness and studied their responses. They found that breathlessness makes daily tasks difficult and often increases dependence on family, friends or carers. It can affect social activities and personal relationships, leading to loneliness and isolation. Many people also said that environmental factors, such as poor air quality, and other long-term health conditions made their symptoms worse. Breathlessness can disrupt normal life, reduce independence and limit social contact. It can also cause worry, fear, and stress, leading people to avoid activities, which may make their condition worsen over time.
The study suggests that a joined-up public health approach is needed. Health services should work with housing and environmental agencies to reduce avoidable causes of breathlessness and improve support for patients.
Reilly CC, Higginson IJ, Roach A, Chalder T, Bristowe K. “Breathlessness stops me doing everything”: exploring the impact of chronic breathlessness due to advanced respiratory disease and exacerbating factors – a qualitative study. ERJ Open Res. 2026 Mar 16;12(2):00660-2025. doi: 10.1183/23120541.00660-2025. PMID: 41846694; PMCID: PMC12991001.