Signs of Respiratory Distress Johns Hopkins Medicine COVID-19 Updates Masks are required inside all of our care facilities. We are vaccinating all eligible patients. Learn more: Vaccines, Boosters & Additional Doses Testing Patient Care Visitor Guidelines Coronavirus Email Alerts Find more COVID-19 testing locations on Maryland.gov. CloseSearch Submit Search Popular Searches coronavirus careers medical records map insurance accepted telemedicine Menu Health Signs of Respiratory Distress Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Share on Pinterest Share via Email Print this Page Signs of Respiratory Distress Learning the signs of respiratory distress People having trouble breathing often show signs that they are having to work harder to breathe or are not getting enough oxygen, indicating respiratory distress. Below is a list of some of the signs that may indicate that a person is working harder to breathe and may not be getting enough oxygen. It is important to learn the signs of respiratory distress to know how to respond. Always see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis: Breathing rate. An increase in the number of breaths per minute may mean that a person is having trouble breathing or not getting enough oxygen. Color changes. A bluish color seen around the mouth, on the inside of the lips, or on the fingernails may happen when a person is not getting as much oxygen as needed. The color of the skin may also appear pale or gray. Grunting. A grunting sound can be heard each time the person exhales. This grunting is the body's way of trying to keep air in the lungs so they will stay open. Nose flaring. The openings of the nose spreading open while breathing may mean that a person is having to work harder to breathe. Retractions. The chest appears to sink in just below the neck or under the breastbone with each breath or both. This is one way of trying to bring more air into the lungs, and can also be seen under the rib cage or even in the muscles between the ribs. Sweating. There may be increased sweat on the head, but the skin does not feel warm to the touch. More often, the skin may feel cool or clammy. This may happen when the breathing rate is very fast. Wheezing. A tight, whistling or musical sound heard with each breath can mean that the air passages may be smaller (tighter), making it harder to breathe. Body position. A person may spontaneously lean forward while sitting to help take deeper breaths. This is a warning sign that he or she is about to collapse. If you see someone with these symptoms, call 911. If the person is in a healthcare facility, immediately notify a health care professional. You may also want to consider taking a first aid or CPR class so you are prepared for medical emergencies. Find a Treatment Center Find Additional Treatment Centers at: Howard County General Hospital Sibley Memorial Hospital Suburban Hospital Request an Appointment Find a Doctor Find a Doctor See More