Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Shallow breathing
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Shallow breathing is the drawing of minimal breath into the lungs, usually by drawing air into the chest area using the intercostal muscles rather than throughout the lungs via the diaphragm. Shallow breathing can result in or be symptomatic of rapid breathing and hyperventilation. Most people who breath shallowly do it throughout the day and are almost always unaware of the condition.
Shallow breathing is considered unhealthy, the better alternative being diaphragmatic breathing.
Differential diagnosis of underlying causes
Differential diagnosis of underlying causes
Several conditions are marked by or symptomatic of shallow breathing. The more common of these symptoms include: various anxiety disorders, asthma, hyperventilation, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and shock. Anxiety, stress, and panic attacks often accompany shallow breathing.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]