Labored breathing, also known as dyspnea or dyspnoea, is a condition in which a person experiences difficulty breathing. It is characterized by shortness of breath, feeling of tightness in the chest, and an increased effort to breathe. Dyspnea can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including asthma, COPD, heart failure, and obesity. Treatment for labored breathing depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, and oxygen therapy.