
08/18/2025
When temperatures rise, breathing can become more difficult – especially for people with underlying health conditions. While lung or heart disease may come to mind first, several lesser-known factors also can contribute to breathing difficulties in hotter weather, including anemia, anxiety, allergies, asthma, infections, dehydration, and fatigue. Chronic conditions like COPD, irregular heart rhythms, and autoimmune diseases also may flare up in the heat.
If you or someone you know experiences ongoing or sudden shortness of breath in hotter weather, be sure to talk to a healthcare provider.