Exercise increases your respiratory rate, particularly during strenuous exercise -- and especially if you have not exercised in some time. However, if you notice a sudden onset of shortness of breath during your regular workout, this can be a sign of several adverse health conditions, some of them warranting an assessment by your doctor.
Fitness Level
Shortness of breath during exercise may simply be a good indication of your fitness level, particularly if you are beginning a new exercise program. It is important to plan the right types of exercises, as well as exercise intensity, to correspond to your individual fitness level. Start slowly, and listen to your body. If you notice that your heart is racing or that you are having difficulty breathing to the point that you cannot engage in light conversation, it is time to pull back and train at a level more appropriate for you. Do not let your symptoms get you down. Stick to it, as the easiest and smartest way to build up exercise tolerance is to gradually increase your level of exercise intensity.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle and fitness goals may not necessarily complement one another. Obesity, for example, requires a conservative approach to exercise, as you will likely experience symptoms like shortness of breath until you reach an ideal body weight that does not put strain on your heart during exertion. If you smoke, the habit can lead to both heart and lung disease. Both of these can easily be exacerbated by exercise, leading to such symptoms as shortness of breath. If you are chronically exposed to respiratory irritants at home or at work, you may be at increased risk for certain lung diseases, allergies and asthma, all of which have the potential to interfere with your workouts.
Other Factors
Shortness of breath upon exertion may also be a sign of illness. Your body may just be warning you to slow down, as infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or even the common cold or flu may cause difficult breathing during exercise; more serious conditions, such as emphysema, lung cancer and heart disease, include shortness of breath upon exertion as one of the initial signs that something is wrong.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Shortness of breath while exercising does not necessarily warrant a dash to your doctor's office. However, there are several telltale signs and symptoms that indicate the need for medical attention. One of these is a worsening of your symptoms over time. If, after several days your shortness of breath does not resolve, your doctor may want to rule out anything more severe than mild illness. If you also notice swelling in your ankles and feet, this may be a sign of heart complications. If it becomes difficult for you to breathe when lying flat on your back, or if you begin to wheeze, make an appointment with your doctor to find out the cause.
