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Anxiety and Panic Attacks In Emphysema ... - Mind Publications

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How to Do “Diaphragmatic Breathing” or “Lower Ribs Breathing”<br />

“Diaphragmatic breathing” which is also called “lower ribs breathing” may be<br />

done in a seated position or lying down position.<br />

Some people with COPD experience aggravation of their breathing problem when<br />

lying down. They have a hard time mobilizing the diaphragm in that position. They<br />

should practice breathing technique in comfortable seated position.<br />

Those who don't have this problem can practice diaphragm breathing in a<br />

prone position. Lying down with a s<strong>and</strong>bag, bag of rice, beanbag or a book<br />

weighing one or two pounds on the abdomen while practicing diaphragm<br />

breathing for 5 to 15 minutes strengthens the diaphragm <strong>and</strong> also promotes<br />

relaxation. Later the weight can be increased to 5 or 10 pounds. After the<br />

s<strong>and</strong>bag method is mastered, they can practice diaphragm breathing in the<br />

sitting <strong>and</strong> st<strong>and</strong>ing positions <strong>and</strong> then while walking.<br />

Walking is a highly beneficial exercise for people with COPD, <strong>and</strong> if they can do<br />

diaphragm breathing while walking, the benefits are likely to be even greater.<br />

One should learn both techniques of diaphragm breathing: (1) abdominal<br />

breathing--pressing the belly in for exhalation <strong>and</strong> exp<strong>and</strong>ing the belly for<br />

inhalation <strong>and</strong> (2) side rib breathing--squeezing the side ribs with the h<strong>and</strong>s while<br />

exhaling <strong>and</strong> releasing them while inhaling.<br />

Pursed-Lip Breathing (PLB) for Shortness of Breath<br />

Pursed -Lip Breathing (PLB) is one of the most helpful things you can do when you are feeling<br />

breathless. Pursed lips help to keep the breathing tubes (bronchi) open <strong>and</strong> maintain right pressure in those<br />

tiny, tiny air sacs. Mouth is closer to lungs than the nose is, so it’s easier to blow the breath out through<br />

the mouth.<br />

Benefits of PLB<br />

1. Reduces breathlessness<br />

2. Slows the breathing rate<br />

3. Lengthens the exhalation<br />

4. Helps to empty the stale air out of the lungs<br />

5. <strong>In</strong>creases the size of your breath volume<br />

<strong>In</strong>structions for PLB<br />

Lean slightly forward <strong>and</strong> s-l-o-w-l-y blow out through

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