Breathlessness in adults : triage

Dyspnoea, or breathlessness, is a complex symptom characterized by the subjective experience of breathing discomfort, which may manifest in various sensations and degrees of severity. It is a prevalent condition, affecting millions globally and serving as a primary indicator of underlying disorders, including respiratory, cardiac, neuromuscular, psychogenic, and systemic illnesses, or a combination thereof. The distinction between acute dyspnea, developing over hours to days, and chronic dyspnea, persisting for more than 4 to 8 weeks, is crucial for diagnosis and management.

The American Thoracic Society defines breathlessness as "a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that consists of qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity." This definition underscores the individual nature of dyspnea, highlighting its significance across a wide array of health conditions, notably those affecting the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as in cancer patients. Dyspnea is not only a medical concern but also a significant burden on patients and their families, profoundly impacting quality of life and functional capacity.