6 Simple Home Treatments for Shortness of Breath
The medical term for shortness of breath is dyspnea. Despite being relatively common, it can be uncomfortable and distressing to experience.
The medical term for shortness of breath is dyspnea. Despite being relatively common, it can be uncomfortable and distressing to experience.
Shortness of breath can occur due to multiple reasons. It can be temporary or due to some serious underlying health condition.
When it is not a symptom of any serious condition, it is usually possible to manage it at home.
Here are 6 simple home treatments for shortness of breath.
Step 2: Slowly inhale through your nose for 4 to 5 seconds. Fill your abdomen with the air, instead of your lungs.
Step 3: Purse your lips and breathe out for 4 to 6 seconds.
Step 2: Gently rest your elbows on your knees or hold your chin with your hands. Remember to keep your neck and shoulder muscles relaxed.
1. Pursed Lip Breathing
This simple breathing technique can help you manage the problem of breathlessness. It can slow your pace of breathing, making each breath deeper and will provide you comfort.
Here is how you can do it.
Step 1: Sit down on the floor or a chair in a comfortable position with your back straight.
Step 2: Slowly inhale through your nose for 4 to 5 seconds. Fill your abdomen with the air, instead of your lungs.
Step 3: Purse your lips and breathe out for 4 to 6 seconds.
Repeat the same 10 to 20 times to return to a normal state.
2. Sitting Forward
Resting while sitting can help relax your body and make breathing easier.Here is how you can do it.
Step 1: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor, leaning your chest slightly forward.
Step 2: Gently rest your elbows on your knees or hold your chin with your hands. Remember to keep your neck and shoulder muscles relaxed.
3. Black Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which can reduce the tightness in the muscles present in the airway. This remedy has proven to be quite effective for people suffering from Asthma. Black coffee can improve lungs function and help you overcome the problem of breathlessness. But avoid it, if it does not suit you.4. Ginger
Having fresh ginger or ginger tea also helps you calm down. Ginger may help reduce shortness of breath caused due to a respiratory infection. The common herb has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the lungs.5. Steam Inhalation
If you are finding it difficult to breath when suffering from a cold then it can be due to mucus formation in the lungs. Inhale steam to break the mucus and clear your air passage.6. Sit Close to a Fan
A study suggests that cool air can help provide relief from the problem of breathlessness. When feeling uncomfortable and finding it difficult to breathe, sit close to a fan. Feeling the force of air while breathing helps you calm down.
Note: Make sure to visit the doctor, for proper diagnosis and treatment.