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Real members of MyCOPDTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Shortness of breath is what I cannot get use to

A MyCOPDTeam Subscriber asked a question 💭
August 17
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COPD Life Expectancy: What the Numbers and Stages Really Mean Read Article...
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Talk with your pulmonologist if you have one. If you don't have one, get one as soon as you can. Have them explain what having COPD means and what can be done to help you @ SharonStewart2

August 17 (edited)
A MyCOPDTeam Member

The above post is for @A MyCOPDTeam Member

August 17
A MyCOPDTeam Member

You mentioned that you were diagnosed with asthma, bronchiectasis and bronchitis in 2004, so are you no longer seeing a doctor and if not why not? You haven't said how bad your shortness of breath is but as @A MyCOPDTeam Member said, you need to see a pulmonologist or get one. If your breathing is labored, go to urgent care or emergency now. You did say that your shortness of breath is "something that you can't get used to". That is something that ALL of us face everyday. Perhaps you are just wondering if there is a way that you can accept your shortness of breath and go on with life? In any case, get help now if you need it and let us know how you are doing. WE CARE!!! Keep reaching out to us and hopefully you'll get the help you need.

August 17
A MyCOPDTeam Member

What do I do next?

August 17
MyCOPDTeam

It's completely understandable — shortness of breath is one of the hardest parts of living with COPD, and it's not something anyone just "gets used to." As one MyCOPDTeam member put it, walking slowly and staying calm helps them go longer, but the moment they try to talk, everything falls apart. You're definitely not alone Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable — shortness of breath is one of the hardest parts of living with COPD, and it's not something anyone just "gets used to." As one MyCOPDTeam member put it, walking slowly and staying calm helps them go longer, but the moment they try to talk, everything falls apart. You're definitely not alone in this.

The good news is there are some techniques that can help in the moment: Pursed Lip Breathing — Breathe in slowly through your nose for 2 seconds, then exhale through pursed lips for 4–6 seconds. This helps release trapped air and improves oxygen exchange.

Diaphragm (Belly) Breathing — Place one hand on your chest and one below your ribs. Breathe in through your nose, letting your belly rise, then exhale through pursed lips. Practice this 2–3 times a day.

Stay as calm as possible — Panic can make breathlessness feel worse. Slowing your breathing down, even slightly, can make a real difference.

It also helps to work with your doctor on a longer-term plan, which might include pulmonary rehabilitation, keeping up with vaccines, avoiding lung irritants, and making sure your medications are being used correctly and on time.

August 17

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