Breath Warning Heart Shortness of breath may indicate heart disease—especially if it is a new symptom in someone 50 or older.New study: People with unexplained breathing problems have more than twice the risk of dying from cardiac causes as people who report chest pain.Reason: Patients with chest pain are more likely to be treated.Self-defense: If you experience shortness of breath, call your doctor. Want to Keep Reading? Continue reading with a Health Confidential membership. Sign up now Already have an account? Sign in