You may feel like you’re running out of air or just can’t breathe deeply enough. Shortness of breath, called dyspnea, is a common symptom of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic condition in which lung tissue becomes thick and stiff. [1] Breathlessness with IPF develops gradually over time, but you can also have sudden breathing episodes, especially with physical activity. “Breathlessness can trigger anxiety, which in turn can make breathing feel even harder.” “For individuals with a chronic lung condition like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, knowing a few simple techniques can help you regain control and reduce distress while you assess whether you need medical attention,” Dr. Shah says.