Anxiety can certainly contribute to being SOB. It's one of the reasons that we recommend that people seek a good talk therapist. Doesn't mean you're crazy; just means that you have problems that could use a little professional wisdom. A good talk therapist will be able to help you learn something about what sets you off, and how to manage and control your anxiety, just like you manage and control your COPD. They'll also have access to a psychiatrist who can prescribe and monitor medications if those are indicated. It's really worth trying.

Anxiety causes our airways to constrict, by narrowing our tubes, making the air more difficult to breath. Stay calm, slow deep breathing. Relax.
Happy breathing. God bless. Sandy
Saturday 22nd April 3017
6.48am

Yes, my friend. When we are nervous or anxious the muscles in our body tense up robbing oxygen from our lungs. Anger also produces the same effect.

Thats what my hospice team says. Who cares if you get addicted to valium or pain pills. When you can breathe you will do anything to beable to breathe and if medications help so be it.

You bet... Nerve and anxiety contribute immensely to SOB... The Valium should help just be aware of the addition problem. I take Xanax but have taken it for so long it loses its effectiveness. Ask your doc about Ativan. It hase the reverse effect on me but works for most people! Then again, who cares? We're old enough to enjoy our lives!