Breathlessness and cough

Breathlessness is a common presentation of a wide range of diseases. It can be a symptom of a life-threatening emergency. In the acute medical setting, the priority is to recognize those patients who are critically unwell and who require emergency treatment. In this group, the ‘ABC’ approach may replace the traditional assessment. However, at some stage a more thorough assessment is required as for more stable patients with a thorough history and examination, followed by baseline investigations to secure the diagnosis. Cough is another common symptom and recognizing worrying associated features to prompt further investigation is important.