Following some simple techniques which can be done at homes such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing is enough to cure breathlessness. Shortness of breath can be caused by asthma, allergic reaction, bronchitis, pneumonia, anxiety, or doing any physical activity. This condition of breathlessness is called Dyspnea the symptoms of which are tightness in the chest and lack of enough air.
You may feel breathlessness suddenly for a moment. It is also possible that you feel it time and again for several weeks. However, if you experience shortness of breath too frequently for longer than 4 weeks then your condition is probably due to a more serious disease.
How to Cure Shortness of Breath at Home
We have shared with you some easy-to-do home remedies that can help you cure your shortness of breath. After following these remedies for a while, you will notice a conspicuous improvement in your breathing.
Apart from these remedies, you can do yoga and breathing exercises to cure your breathlessness. According to the airphysio review, regular exercise of the respiratory system can strengthen your lungs. Healthy lung provides you with better assistance for fighting against breathing problems.
Find A Comfortable And Supported Position
When you feel shortness of breath, look for a comfortable and supported position and calm yourself.
- Sit in a chair inclining a bit forward resting your elbows on your knees.
- If you are able to find a table, then rest your hands on the table and put your head on your arms.
- Stand close to a wall leaning your back against the wall so that you feel most of your weight is supported by the wall.
- Rest your hands on the top of something stable which is the same height as a table and relax your body.
- Lie down with your head and knee a little elevated.
Deep breathing
When you are home, you can try deep breathing. Deep breathing can help cure shortness of breath.
- First, lie straight on a flat surface facing upwards.
- Rest your hands on your abdomen.
- Inhale deeply as much as to fill your abdomen with air using your nose and hold your breath for some seconds.
- Exhale slowly using your mouth.
Pursed Lip Breathing
Pursed lip breathing is an effective technique to cure shortness of breath. You can also do this after exercising or doing any sort of physical activity.
- You can do this sitting or standing. Relax your body, especially your shoulder and neck.
- Breathe in using your nose for several seconds.
- Press your lips keeping a hole as if you are going to whistle
- Now gently breathe out through the gap between your pursed lips.
- Repeat doing it a few times.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
- Sit in a chair keeping your back straight. Put your feet flat on the floor.
- Put your hand on your belly.
- Keep your lips pressed together and inhale deeply through your nose.
- Pout your lips and breath out through the little gap between your lips.
- Keep breathing out for a longer time than you breathe in.
- Do it for 5-10 minutes at least 3 times a day.
Use A Fan
When you feel out of breath, a fan can help to diminish your discomfort. Sit close to a fan or use a handheld fan towards your face. The airflow produced by the fan can give you the impression that you are inhaling more air. As a consequence, the sensation of short breath will reduce. However, if your shortness of breath is the result of your medical condition, then using a fan might not help.
Inhale Steam
If shortness of breath is caused by mucus buildup in your lungs, then you should do steam inhalation. The hot steam can dissolve the mucus and clear your nasal passages.
- Fill a container with boiling water.
- You can add a few drops of essential oils mostly peppermint or eucalyptus as these are good for curing shortness of breath.
- Place the container below your face in such a way that the steam touches your face.
- Put a towel over your head.
- Now inhale the steam by taking a long breath.
Food For Curing Shortness Of Breath
Several food ingredients that can help you cure your shortness of breath are ginger, onion, turmeric, coffee, and omega 3 fatty acids.
Both ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can ward off asthmatic attacks. Ginger and turmeric can soothe lung inflammation, and stave off allergic reactions.
Onion is a natural antihistamine that fights against breathlessness. Regular consumption of onion can keep respiratory infections away.
Caffeine in the coffee can soothe the muscles in the airways. A study proves that black coffee can slightly reduce the breathlessness of asthmatic patients.
Omega 3 fatty acids can lessen the number of inflammatory chemicals in the body and thus enhance breathing ability. If you are suffering from shortness of breath, you should include omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, chia seed, and flaxseed oil in your diet.
Sleep In A Relaxed Position
Many people suffer from shortness of breath during sleeping, which is called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs because of the improper posture of sleeping. Sleep apnea disturbs sound sleep and causes frequent wake-ups. Generally, sleep apnea is caused by blocked airways. So sleeping in a position that can keep the airways clear might help you cure sleep apnea.
Lie down on a flat but comfortable surface. Keep your head uplifted by pillows. Bend your knees and place one or two pillows under your knees. If you lie on your side then place a pillow between your legs.
Conclusion
Suffering from shortness of breath is unnerving. Follow our guide and try the above home remedies to cure your breathlessness. However, if your breathlessness is caused by an acute disease such as heart disease, severe asthma, or lung disease, then your chance of recovering by following these remedies is narrow.