One thing I was taught is what I call relaxed breathing. When I start those short quick breathes and fill like I'm short of air. Pull air thru the nose for a count of 4 hold count of 5 blow out thru pursed lips for 6. Practice before you need it gets the air out that is trapped in your lungs that's spent and is taking up space. This will even your breathing pattern back out. If 4 5 6 pattern is hard do a 2 3 4. when your short of breath this will be hard to do but concentrate do it and Oh so much better.

yes i undersdtand! I have to take several big breaths it seems to get what i need. I dont think it will go away depending on the damage to the lungs. Ive really hurt myself by smoking but it is what it is and im going to deal with what comes my way with the Lords help.

I've been doing the breathing 456 routine for the last few days and it really does help. I'm currently in rehearsals for a play. I'm assistant stage manager. And each time I get caught coughing backstage I have to run out back and drink cold water and then try the breathing til I'm quiet again...soo annoying, now it interferes with my biggest hobby.

The method of smell the roses and blow out (slowly) the candle works extremely well. When you first start hold you breath as long as you can then slowly blow it out through pursed lips. With COPD your lungs cannot expel the air that is in them so when you first start smelling the roses you may only be able hold it to a count of 4. As you do it more and more you will be able to hold it longer and even count to 10. Just remember to RELAX and not panic. Good luck.

I get that too.....and in sleep my breath goes so shallow then I seem to gasp and start to cough or choke....sometimes several times a night til I have to sleep sitting up...seems to stop it for a night.