Make an appointment with your doctor if your shortness of breath is accompanied by: Swelling in your feet and ankles Trouble breathing when you lie flat High fever, chills and cough Lips or fingertips turning blue Wheezing Stridor — a high pitched noise that occurs with breathing Worsening of pre-existing shortness of breath..other wise fallow bellow advices Stop smoking. The benefits of quitting smoking are extraordinary. Once you're tobacco-free, your risks of heart disease, lung disease and cancer begin to drop — even if you've been smoking for years. Avoid exposure to pollutants. As much as possible, avoid breathing allergens and environmental toxins. Lose weight if you are overweight. Take care of yourself. If you have an underlying medical condition, take care of it. Have an action plan. Discuss with your doctor what to do if your symptoms become worse. Avoid exertion at elevations higher than 5,000 feet (1,524 meters). Consult nearest physician for further help