Thursday, January 10, 2008
You would think that breathing would be as easy as inhaling and exhaling, requiring no thought at all. But for people with COPD, breathing can sometimes be very difficult - sometimes seeming almost impossible. Today we're going to begin to talk about proper breathing techniques with COPD. Some ...
10 COPD Myths 
7 Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer 
5 Tips for Getting Restful Sleep with COPD 
7 Signs Your COPD is Getting Worse 
I have read this article and I will practice this breathing exercise and remind my primary physician (who is a pulmonary specialist) Regarding the the process of learning to slowly inhale and exhale by purking the lips. I have suddenly developed a shortness of breath, I do want to control my breathing not the breathing to control me.
During these cold months and new stress at my job has brought this on even more so. 1 year and 1/2 ago I lost a daughter, and it started then. With the stress and depression that came over me. i did not know I hade dyspnea until I had the Pulmonary Function test. I was labeled "Dyspnea" I commute alot to work M-F , but now it has affected me, especially with the cold weather. I panic sometimes when I step out doors. I do not want this to happen. I will take any advise, of cause I will discuss with my physician. Thank you.
Dear Angela,
Thank you for reading the article and for commenting.
First of all, please accept my condolences on the loss of your daughter. I am so very sorry for your loss and I can certainly see why you would experience stress and depression.
It's good to hear that you have a pulmonary specialist, and yes, by all means, you should always ask your personal physician before beginning any type of technique or exercise new to you. If you're having trouble becoming more short of breath when doing the pursed lips breathing, you should first work on it, face to face with a respiratory therapist or other health care professional specializing in pulmonary issues. This way a trained person can observe you and work with you, hands on, to make sure you're doing it effectively. Pursed-lips breathing might sound easy to do, but that is not always the case!
Yes, cold weather can be a big trigger for breathing problems because the bronchial tubes can tighten and spasm (bronchial spasm) when the cold air comes in. Make sure you talk with your doctor, asking him or her if there is anything else that might be making you panic when you go outside. With all the stresses going on in your life, you might consider asking if he or she feels you could benefit from talking with a counselor to help you cope. There is nothing wrong with seeking help in this way, in fact, it could be very good for you. Also, wearing a mask or scarf over your mouth and nose really does help warm the air before it hits your delicate lungs.
If causes for the panic other than your breathing have been ruled out, ask your doc about taking medications that help to keep your airways open, take them as prescribed, wear your mask or scarf, walk slowly, and tell yourself to stay calm.
Angela, I hope this helps. Again, before beginning any new techniques or exercise, please consult with your physician.
My Best,
Jane.