Breathlessness

Some people with cancer of unknown primary (CUP) experience shortness of breath.

Learn more about:

• What causes breathlessness?
• Tips to help your breathing

What causes breathlessness?

Causes of breathlessness include:

• fluid surrounding the lungs (pleural effusion)
• an infection in the lungs
• blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolus)
• pressure from the cancer itself or from a swollen abdomen
• anaemia (low levels of red blood cells)
• chronic breathing disorders, such as asthma or emphysema.

Treatment will depend on what is causing the breathlessness. You may need fluid drained from the chest (pleural tap) or medicine for an infection or other lung problem. A low-dose opioid medicine (also used for strong pain) is sometimes prescribed.

Tips to help your breathing

• Use a fan or open a window to get a draught of air moving near your face. A battery- operated handheld fan may be helpful.
• Sit up to ease your breathing or lean forward to rest on a table. Try sleeping in a more upright position.
• Ask someone else to breathe in time with you so you can focus on slowing your breath to their pace.
• Try relaxation or breathing techniques to see if they help. A physiotherapist can teach you these techniques, or you can listen to our meditation and relaxation audio tracks.
• Listen to our podcast on Managing Breathlessness when Cancer is Advanced.