Managing breathlessness

Question 1

Abdominal breathing

Answer 1

Recruits the diaphragm

Helps reduce sensation of breathlessness and get more air into lungs

Question 2

Pursed lip breathing

Answer 2

Keeps airway open longer
Involves breathing in through nose, hold for 3, purse lips, breathe out in 4.
Practice 4-5 times a day

Question 3

Positoning

Answer 3

Sitting at a table with arms on table
Sitting upright against back of chair, resting arms and hands
High side lying
Standing, leaning forwards
Standing leaning backwards or sideways

Question 4

Progressive muscle relaxation

Answer 4

Hands, arms, shoulders, turn head to right and left, chin to chest, eyebrows, eyes, deep breath, legs, pull toes up, relax
Hold each for 5 secs, relax for 8 secs

Question 5

Hand held fans

Answer 5

Cool air can reduce sensation of breathlessness

Aim towards middle of face