If a breathing problem stems from a disease or a condition, the problem may best be treated with a medication that targets the underlying cause. For instance, asthma-related breathing disorders may be treated with bronchodilators while people with emphysema may be given oxygen.

However, a variety of techniques can be used to handle general breathing problems. These include:

• Pursed-lip breathing. Involves exhaling with lips partially closed, as if preparing to whistle. It is often used by individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because it prevents over-inflation of the lungs by increasing pressure in the airways, keeping the lungs from collapsing.
  
  
• Diaphragmatic breathing (also known as “deep breathing” or “belly-breathing”) helps fill the lungs fully and slows the breathing rate, creating a sense of relaxation. This is important, because those with breathing problems can exacerbate the situation if they panic or become too anxious. To practice this method:
  
  
• 1. Place one hand just below the ribs and the other on the chest
  2. Inhale deeply, letting the belly push the hand out
  3. Exhale slowly through pursed lips
  4. Repeat three to 10 times
     
     
• Sitting breathing exercises:
  
  
• 1. Rest feet flat on the floor
  2. Lean chest forward slightly
  3. Rest elbows on knees and chin on hands
  4. Relax neck and shoulders
     
     OR

• 1. Rest feet flat on floor
  2. Lean chest forward slightly
  3. Rest arms on a table
  4. Rest head on forearms or pillows
     
     
• Standing breathing exercises:
  
  
• 1. Stand with feet shoulder–width apart
  2. Lean hips against a wall
  3. Rest hands on thighs
  4. Relax shoulders, lean forward slightly and dangle arms in front of body
     
     OR

• Sleeping positions:
  
  
• • Lie on side with one pillow between legs and another under head, keeping back straight
    
    
  • Lie on back with head elevated on pillows, knees bent and pillow beneath knees