India, Aug. 8 -- It's common to feel breathless after climbing a flight of stairs, this is a normal reflex as your body works harder during physical activity. When you're active, your heart and lungs increase their effort to supply oxygen to your muscles.

However, if breathlessness becomes frequent, persistent, or occurs along with other symptoms, it's important to pay attention. It could be a sign that your lungs or heart are struggling and trying to alert you to a more serious issue. (Also read: Cardiologist explains how regular exercise can make your heart up to '20 years younger', but only if you start before 65 )

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Mahavir Modi, Consultant Pulmonologist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, explains when b...