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Breathing Techniques for COPD Patients

Introduction

Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can make breathing challenging. It is normal to feel anxious when you experience shortness of breath, but there are techniques to help you manage your breathing more effectively. This article will guide you through two key breathing techniques: Pursed-Lips Breathing and Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing. Before starting any new breathing exercises, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for you.

Pursed-Lips Breathing

Pursed-lips breathing helps to slow down your breathing, keep your airways open longer, and reduce the work of breathing. This technique is especially useful during and after exercise or any activity that makes you feel short of breath.

How to Perform Pursed-Lips Breathing:

  1. Inhale: Breathe in through your nose for about 2 seconds.
  2. Pucker: Pucker your lips as if you are about to blow out candles on a birthday cake.
  3. Exhale: Breathe out very slowly through your pursed lips for about 4 to 6 seconds, which is two to three times longer than your inhale.
  4. Repeat: Continue this pattern, focusing on the slow and controlled exhalation.

Benefits of Pursed-Lips Breathing:

  • Slows your breathing rate.
  • Keeps airways open longer to expel more stale air.
  • Reduces the effort required for breathing.
  • Increases the time you can spend on physical activities.
  • Improves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your lungs.

Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing involves using your diaphragm effectively, which can be challenging but highly beneficial. This method encourages deeper breathing and better oxygen intake.

How to Perform Diaphragmatic Breathing:

  1. Position: Lie on your back or sit in a comfortable chair.
  2. Hands Placement: Place one hand on your abdomen and the other on your upper chest.
  3. Focus: Concentrate on your abdominal movements.
  4. Inhale: Breathe in slowly through your nose. Your abdomen should rise while your chest remains still.
  5. Exhale: Breathe out slowly through pursed lips. Your abdomen should fall.
  6. Practice: Do this exercise 2 to 3 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes. Begin lying down, then progress to sitting, standing, and eventually performing this while doing activities.

Benefits of Diaphragmatic Breathing:

  • Encourages efficient use of the diaphragm.
  • Reduces reliance on neck, shoulder, and back muscles for breathing.
  • Helps manage shortness of breath during daily activities and exercises.

Using These Techniques During Daily Activities

To manage shortness of breath effectively during your daily routine:

  1. Stop: Pause the activity that is causing breathlessness.
  2. Reset: Sit down, relax your shoulders, and practice pursed-lips breathing until you catch your breath.
  3. Continue: Resume the activity at a slower pace if needed, continuing with pursed-lips breathing.

Activities to Incorporate Diaphragmatic Breathing:

  • Climbing stairs
  • Taking long walks
  • Carrying or lifting objects
  • Showering
  • Exercising

Additional Resources

For visual guidance on these techniques, watch Jane Martin, Assistant Director of Education, demonstrate pursed-lips and diaphragmatic breathing techniques: Breathing Techniques Video

The COPD Foundation also offers resources and an online community called COPD360social, where you can connect with other patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to ask questions, share experiences, and provide or receive support.

Conclusion

By incorporating these breathing techniques into your daily routine, you can manage your COPD symptoms more effectively, reduce anxiety, and improve your overall quality of life. Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new breathing exercises.

Learn more here: Breathing Techniques