13 Body Signals Indian Doctors Wish You Wouldn't Ignore

8. Shortness of breath or unexplained breathlessness

New or worsening breathlessness—especially at rest or with minimal activity—can be a sign of heart failure, lung disease, severe anemia, or pneumonia. Seasonal pollution and smoke exposure can also trigger breathlessness in previously healthy people, but don’t assume pollution is the only cause if symptoms are new. Note when breathlessness started, what triggers it, and whether it's accompanied by chest pain, cough, or swelling in the ankles. Basic checks like measuring oxygen saturation and chest imaging help identify the problem quickly. If you feel breathless while lying flat, wake at night gasping, or notice blue lips or confusion, seek emergency care. Early diagnosis helps guide treatments such as inhalers, oxygen, or heart medications when indicated.