Description
Multiple disease states can either singly or in combination result in shortness of breath. Even after a thorough medical evaluation and a well developed treatment plan, shortness of breath can be a persistent and/or recurrent problem. You must have a clear understanding from your doctor or medical provider as to what to expect and when to seek further help. Make sure you know how to use the medications prescribed for this problem and what the expected side effects are. The following are helpful tips in learning how to live with your shortness of breath.

Helpful tips

• Keep the house cool. Use a fan to circulate the air
• Place chairs in strategic places so that you can sit and rest if necessary
• When using oxygen, make sure you roll up the tubing as you go and put it over your shoulder as you go, to prevent tripping
• Stay away from chemical and environmental triggers (i.e. cleaning agents, pollen, perfumes, and cigarette/cigar smokers)
• Pay attention to which activities cause the greatest amount of shortness of breath. If you are using nebulizer treatments or inhalers, use them before engaging in these activities
• If you are coughing up mucus, check for the amount produced, discoloration, thicker than usual, and whether or not there is blood in it. Report changes to your physician or medical provider
• Keep up with your fluid intake, as dehydration will make it harder for you to clear your secretions. If you have swelling or related heart condition contributing to your shortness of breath, weigh yourself daily and record on a calendar. If your weight increases by 2 pounds over a 24 hour period, this indicates that you are retaining fluid. Follow your physicians instructions or contact your physicians office for follow up
• Limit dairy products as this may thicken your mucus
• If you have esophageal reflux aggravating your shortness of breath, make sure that the head of your bed is elevated at a 30 degree angle at all times by raising your bed up on blocks, or using a wedge pillow
• Take your medications as directed
• If you have severe respiratory distress, seek emergency care immediately

Discussion
You should have a clear understanding of the cause of your shortness of breath and your treatment plan after your initial visit with your medical provider. If your symptoms persist, are recurrent, become more frequent, or become gradually more severe in intensity, you will need to make a follow-up appointment with you physician or medical provider.

Related topics
Discussing Shortness of breath with your physician or medical provider
Breathing Exercise for Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis