Emphysema is a chronic lung disease in which the plump, grape-like air sacs in the lungs become damaged and turn into large, empty holes. As a result of this transformation, your oxygen saturation levels fall, because the amount of oxygen that can enter your bloodstream is limited. Symptoms of emphysema including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing that may include wheezing, and coughing. You may be able to improve your breathing with exercises, performed with the permission of your physician.
Pursed Breathing
People with emphysema have airways that have become obstructed and collapsed. Breathing through pursed lips increases the pressure in your airways and can prevent the severity of the collapse, which may help you breathe more easily.
Purse your lips as if you were making the letter O or going to whistle. Breathe in slowly and deeply, as much as you can through your mouth and exhale. You'll know you're doing the exercise correctly if you hear a hissing sound during both inhalation and exhalation. Perform 10 repetitions daily.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises can help bring more oxygen into your body and also help your body relax, both of which are important when dealing with a chronic lung disease like emphysema.
Sit or stand up straight with your arms at your sides. Take a deep, slow breath in. Bring your arms up so that your elbows are bent, shoulders are back and your chest is puffed out. Hold your breath in for five seconds and release forcefully. Push the air out with your stomach muscles; you should feel your diaphragm move. If you have trouble knowing if you're breathing with your diaphragm, try a few deep breaths with your hands on your stomach, just below your ribs. This is where your diaphragm muscle is located.
Walking
Walking and other light forms of aerobic exercise can be beneficial to your breathing. "The New York Times" reports that walking, if you're able, several times a day can increase your stamina and reduce your breathlessness. You might only be able to walk for five minutes at a time, but that's fine. Work up to 15 minutes if your lungs and body can take it, under the supervision of your doctor.
Strength Training
Strength training may also be able to help you breathe more easily with emphysema. Chronic illnesses of this kind not only cause breathing difficulties but also cause you to lose muscle mass due to a decrease in physical activity. You may be able to regain some strength and easier breathing through strength training for your limbs. Doing leg lifts while lying down or sitting in a chair or doing arm curls with a can of soup, full bottle of water or a 1 lb. hand weight can increase your muscle strength, which can minimize your shortness of breath, explains "The New York Times."
