Check for shortness of breath during normal activities
Notice any wheezing, coughing, or chest tightness
Monitor how long you can speak a full sentence without pausing for breath
Count your resting breathing rate
Observe whether breathing feels harder when lying flat
Track any persistent cough, mucus, or blood in sputum
Use a pulse oximeter to check oxygen saturation if available
Compare oxygen readings at rest and after light activity
Walk for a set time and note unusual breathlessness or fatigue
Watch for bluish lips or fingertips
Check for chest pain or pressure with breathing or activity
Pay attention to frequent respiratory infections
Notice reduced exercise tolerance compared with usual
Monitor nighttime symptoms such as coughing or waking short of breath
Seek medical care if symptoms are severe, worsening, or sudden