Stress Control for Better Breathing, Avoiding Fear and Panic

Breathlessness becomes much worse when feeling stressed.  Avoiding stress is not always possible, but controlling your reaction to it, can keep you from the downward spiral.  


Stress causes anxiety which leads to a cycle of faster breathing, tired breathing muscles, increased shortness of breath, more anxiety and so on.  This can result in fear and panic about breathlessness. 


Here are some techniques to help you relax when anxiety begins.  


1.  Use breathing techniques like pursed lip, diaphragmatic or yoga breathing. (described in earlier posts).


2.  Get comfortable and close your eyes.  Imagine yourself somewhere quiet and pleasant.
Feel a soft breeze on your face, hear birds singing, smell your favorite fragrance, taste a pleasant food or drink on your tongue, and don't leave this place until you are relaxed.


3.  Yoga, prayer, meditation or listening to relaxing music can help.


4.  Slowly from head to toe, or toe to head, tighten and relax your muscles.  Breathe in as you tighten and out slowly as you relax.  Counting slowly while you do this can help.


You can't avoid all stress, but as Dr. OZ says,  keep your "NUTS, (Nagging, Undone Task Stress)" under control.  There are daily stresses we can eliminate by planning ahead, asking for help or even just making a list and checking off items as you do them.  


 If you have tips about things that have helped you. please share them in comments and we will post them. 
                                               

Understanding COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Over 12 million people in the United States have COPD,  about 1 in 4 older Americans. It has become the 4th leading cause of death. Most people with COPD are over 40 and many have smoking history, or environmental exposure to fumes or airborne particles

There is a big misconception we make.  We expect shortness of breath with activities to be a normal part of aging. Feeling short of breath is not normal at any age. Changing or stopping activities you enjoy, because you can't catch your breath may be a sign of COPD. 

In COPD the airways can become narrowed or damaged. This makes it hard to get air out, and can cause that breathless feeling. Other symptoms may include coughing, excess mucus, noisy breathing or wheezing.

Today many treatments are available to improve your breathing.  If you think you may have COPD, talk to your doctor. A simple breathing test, right in the doctor's office, can help determine if you have it.

To learn more about COPD, visit www.learnaboutcopd.org by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the NIH, and the American Lung Association.

Don’t miss out on things because of shortness of breath.  Talk with your doctor.  There are many great treatment options to help you get back on track.

Blog up and working again.

Please excuse the long delay in posts and activity on this blog.  It is again ready for activity.