Dyspnoea is a subjective sensation which probably develops as a result of integration of signals from the cen- tral nervous system and some peripheral receptors. Known dyspnoegenic stimuli include the sensation of an incre- ased effort of the respiratory muscles, information from chemoreceptors on the inadequacy of ventilation, from pulmonary receptors on the compression of the airways and disharmony between information on the tension of the respiratory muscles and the corresponding shortening of the muscle. Pathological dyspnoea, incl. that of cardi- ac origin is usually associated with impaired breathing. Dyspnoea can be measured. Possible influencing of dys- pnoea depends on knowledge of the mechanism of genesis of this sensation. Treatment of dyspnoea can be focu- sed on increasing the efficiency of respiratory muscles, reduction of afferentation from receptors or suppression of the central integration of the mentioned stimuli.

        Key words: dyspnoea, psychometry, respiration, regulation of breathing.