“I didn’t know my breathing was that bad until it got better!” - Dr. Michael Hess.
COPD is a disease that limits airflow when you exhale. Special breathing techniques can help patients empty their lungs to prepare for their next breath in. Some of the most common breathing techniques are pursed-lip breathing and belly (diaphragmatic) breathing.
Understanding your breathing patterns and appropriate techniques for improving breathing is very important for the management of your care as a COPD patient. Studies have shown that simple breathing techniques can alleviate shortness of breath (dyspnea) and improve airflow. Breathing techniques not only have physiological benefits, but can also play a pivotal role in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. See Further Reading: Pursed-Lip Breathing and Belly Breathing for more information on breathing techniques.
Relaxation exercises can play a pivotal role in improving respiratory efficiency by reducing breathing frequency and increasing tidal volume (the amount of air moved in or out of the lungs during a normal breath). See Further Reading: How to Avoid Exacerbations for suggested relaxation exercises.
Proper body positioning can be used to alleviate your symptoms as well. Try to use a forward leaning position, as this can help improve your body’s ability to help you breathe.
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