True shortness of breath and pain in your chest

True shortness of breath is a feeling that you cannot get enough air or that you are smothering.

Chest wall pain may cause rapid, shallow breathing, but it does not cause true shortness of breath. The discomfort will subside as your pain improves.


Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BSLast Updated: April 27, 2007
Medical Review: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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