Acidosis is a term that refers to excess acid in the body. According to an article in "American Nurse Today," maintaining an acid-base balance relies on some complex chemical reactions. Two organs are responsible for this delicate process: the kidneys and the lungs. While the underlying problem may be with the kidneys, proper breathing is one way to regulate CO2 levels and may be helpful in correcting acidosis. Kidney failure and acidosis are serious conditions that cannot be controlled or treated by breathing techniques alone. Talk to your doctor about the best approach for dealing with acidosis and impaired kidney function.
Deep Breathing
Acidosis may be a result of hypoventilation. When air does not penetrate deeply in the lungs, the body may fail to control CO2 levels. Practicing deep breathing may help you learn to inhale the effectively. Sit comfortably in a chair with your back straight. Inhale deeply and feel your belly expand outward like a balloon. Hold the breath for one or two seconds, and then exhale slowly through your nose. As you breathe out, concentrate on pulling in the abdominal muscles as if you wish to press them back toward your spine. Repeat the process five times. As you perfect the technique, try to increase the speed. "American Nurse Today" states it takes fast, deeper breathing to eliminate CO2 from the lungs.
Expanding the Lungs
Lung expansion is an essential part of deep breathing. By working to expand your lungs fully, you may improve the regulation of CO2. While in a chair, inhale deeply through your nose. Hold your breath for two seconds and then inhale again through your nose without releasing any of the held air. Hold for two seconds and repeat the process one more time. You will inhale small amounts of air three times before exhaling once. Repeat this technique five to 10 times per session.
Regulation
The website Women to Women describes a technique to help you breath in and out equally. The article refers to this practice as "The Bellows." While sitting in a chair, concentrate on your breathing. Do not force air deep into the lungs; just take normal breaths. Focus on inhaling and exhaling at the same level. In other words, exhale as much air as you inhale. Women to Women suggests you do this for 10 to 15 seconds at the most when first learning the technique. Over time you may work up to one minute.
