My boyfriend is 57, lately he has acquired the following symptoms: short of breath, gets winded, shallow breathing while sleepi he has to sit down to catch his breath from walking only a short distance, light-headed, pants to breath. he doesn't want to

Depending : Depending on his weight and symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness along with shallow breathing could suggest he may have sleep apnea which could in itself, if untreated, lead to pulmonary hypertension and shortness of breath.

I'm : I'm sorry your boyfriend isn't doing well. Unfortunately, his symptoms are very worrisome, and he needs to see a doctor whether he wants to or not. Exertional dyspnea (shortness of breath with minimal exertion) could be a sign of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure), or severe lung disease. If not treated, such conditions can lead to serious complications or even death. This is not something you should attempt to address at home, as diagnosis and proper treatment might just save your boyfriend's life. If he hasn't seen a physician for this problem yet, he should do so at once. I hope things go well!

?asthma: Sleep apnea was discussed by another physician but asthma should not be overlooked. That can occur in a 57 year old. I assume he is not a smoker or ex-smoker. If so, then COPD may be the cause of his problems. He may require an inhaler. He should get a breathing test and an examination by his doctor.