Discharge Instructions: Controlled Breathing
When you have lung problems, you may find it harder to take deep breaths. Learning to use controlled breathing can help you get more air into and out of your lungs, which will help you cope with shortness of breath.
Home Care
Follow these steps to use controlled breathing:
Sit or lie down in a comfortable position with your knees bent.
Relax the muscles in your neck and shoulders.
Place one hand over the center of your stomach; place the other hand on your upper chest.
To the count of 2, breathe in slowly through your nose as deeply as you can. Feel your stomach muscles relax and move out.
Imagine blowing out a candle, then pucker your lips.
Relax and breathe out naturally through pursed lips to the count of 4. You should feel your stomach muscles move in.
Repeat the above steps until you feel relaxed or are no longer feeling short of breath.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:
Shortness of breath that is not relieved by controlled breathing exercises or by your medication
Wheezing or coughing
Increased mucus
Yellow, green, bloody, or smelly mucus
Fever or chills
Tightness in your chest that does not go away with your normal medications
Irregular heartbeat
Swollen ankles
Trouble doing your usual activities