Breathlessness

Breathlessness, sometimes called ‘dyspnoea’, is usually described as ‘an uncomfortable awareness of your breathing’. It is very common, but can be quite difficult and frightening. The causes can be physical, emotional or psychological and are most often a combination of these.

If breathlessness is new or rapidly-worsening then you should consult your doctor without delay.

There are easy techniques you can use to relieve an episode of breathlessness:

• Using a hand-held fan, either battery-operated or a simple paper one, to create a gentle breeze around your mouth and nose really helps
  
• Sitting in a comfortable armchair with your feet firmly on the ground and with your arms supported on pillows is a position most people find helpful
• Don’t try to control your breathing too much, just concentrate on sighing the ‘old’ air gently out of your lungs to make room for the fresh air to stream in with each breath.
• There are acupressure techniques which are easy to learn and which have been shown to relieve breathlessness – these along with other advice can be given by a physiotherapist or occupational therapist and your Dorothy House Nurse Specialist will be able to refer you for more individual help.

Dorothy House now offers workshops on Breathlessness Management at the Outreach Centres in Trowbridge and Peasedown St John. Ring the main Dorothy House switchboard for more information - 01225 722988.

Review date:October 2013