Cannot Breathe Properly
| CARD 14 · ORANGE | |
|---|---|
| Category | Breathing |
| 108 | 📞 CALL 108 |
| Pathway | ASHA → PHC (same day) → 108 if lips / extremities turn blue |
What is this?
Feeling slightly breathless when climbing stairs or walking quickly in late pregnancy is common and usually not a problem. But if a woman cannot take a full deep breath even while sitting still and at rest, feels her chest is tight, or feels like she cannot get enough air, this is a danger sign. The body should always be able to breathe comfortably when at rest.
Difficulty breathing at rest can be caused by severe anaemia (not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen), a heart or lung condition made worse by pregnancy, or severe pre-eclampsia. It can also be a side effect of the baby pressing on the lungs in late pregnancy — but even then, the breathing should not cause distress at rest. If the lips, tongue, or fingertips turn blue or grey, call 108 immediately.
- Sit upright — do not lie flat
- Tell your ASHA immediately
- Go to the nearest health facility the same day
- If lips or fingertips turn blue — call 108 immediately
Pathway: ASHA→PHC (same day)→📞 108 if lips / extremities turn blue
Breathlessness that occurs even while sitting quietly — not just during walking or exertion — is always serious in pregnancy. If the lips, tongue, or fingertips become blue or grey, this is a life-threatening emergency: call 108 immediately and do not allow the woman to walk. Causes include heart failure, severe anaemia, and pulmonary embolism — all require emergency hospital care.
Khasi audio guide
Related cards
- Pale Eyelid and Nails — severe anaemia is a common cause of breathlessness
- Blood Pressure High — severe pre-eclampsia can cause breathlessness
- Mother Has Collapsed — what to do if she loses consciousness