COPD Breathing Exercises That Bring Instant Relief

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can transform everyday life into a battle. The positive news is that COPD breathing exercises can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. These exercises help make the diaphragm and abdominal muscles stronger, so those with COPD can take in a higher level of oxygen and expend less effort into breathing.

Try these techniques for 5-10 minutes several times a day.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

1. Lie on your back on the floor or firm bed with the knees bent. Support the knees and head with pillows.
2. Place one hand on your belly and the other on the chest.
3. Breathe deeply through your nose to the count of three. Use your hands to confirm that your belly rises while your chest remains still.
4. Tighten your abdominal muscles, then breathe out through slightly pursed lips to the count of six. Confirm that the chest stays still.
5. Repeat for five to ten minutes as tolerated.

Controlled Coughing

This tactic can be used in conjunction with diaphragmatic breathing to help remove mucus from the airways.

1. Get a tissue and sit upright in a comfortable chair. Bend the head slightly forward. Set both feet firmly on the floor.
2. Use diaphragmatic breathing to breathe in deeply. Try to hold your breath for three seconds.
3. Place one hand on the belly underneath your ribs. Press it gently in and up toward your diaphragm while coughing once. This should help to push the mucus up into your throat. Cough once again to clear the mucus from your throat.
4. Spit the mucus into a tissue.
5. Rest for a moment or two and repeat as needed. Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands when you’re finished.

Pursed-Lip Breathing

Practice this technique so you can use it when exercising or performing physical activity such as climbing stairs or lifting groceries.

1. Sit in a chair and relax your shoulders and neck.
2. Take a normal breath in through your nose with the mouth closed.
3. Purse your lips as if you were about to whistle, then breathe out gently and slowly for four seconds through your pursed lips. If four seconds is too long, try to breathe out for twice as long as you inhale.
4. Repeat for a minute or so, as long as it feels comfortable.

At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, our caregivers are fully trained and experienced in supporting those with COPD with exercising, along with a wide range of in-home care services. Reach out to us at 877.308.1212 to learn more about home health services in Traverse City, MI and nearby communities.