The term "shallow breathing" can refer to 2 different processes:
- breathing mechanics (problems with thoracic or chest breathing);
- breathing volume (too small tidal volume or amount of air per inhalation). Bear in mind that ideal or healthy automatic breathing at rest is very small in amount, but mainly abdominal.

Symptoms of Shallow Breaths
The symptoms of chest breathing are very individual and can range from dyspnea (or shortness of breath, which is common during terminal cancer, Acute Epiglottiditis, HIV-AIDS, cystic fibrosis, COPD, Emphysema, and many other conditions) and angina pain (a sign of low heart oxygenation) to blocked nose, Sleep Apnea, anxiety, fatigue and Constipation. 

Home Care
Rapid, shallow breathing should not be treated at home. It is generally considered a medical emergency (unless anxiety is the only cause). If you have asthma or COPD, use your inhaler medicines as prescribed by your provider. You may still need to be checked by a provider right away if you have rapid shallow breathing. Your provider will explain when it is important to go to the emergency room.

When to Contact a Medical Professional
Go to the emergency room if you are breathing rapidly and you have:
-- Bluish or grayish color to the skin, nails, gums, lips, or the area around the eyes (cyanosis)
-- Chest pain
-- Chest that is pulling in with each breath
-- Fever
-- Labored or difficult breathing
-- Never had rapid breathing before
-- Symptoms that are getting more severe