Living with Lung Disease: 5 Ways to Increase Your Oxygen Flow When You Breathe

Although they can’t replace medications designed to improve lung function, certain breathing techniques and healthy habits can help improve oxygen levels.

Our services at Allergy A.R.T.S. in Amarillo, Texas, include comprehensive care for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and interstitial lung disease.

Improving your oxygen flow is crucial when you’re living with lung disease. Here are five ways to do that:

1. Practice pursed-lip breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a simple technique that can help you breathe more efficiently by slowing your breathing and keeping your airways open longer.

To do this, inhale slowly through your nose for about two seconds and then exhale slowly through pursed lips (like you’re blowing out a candle) for about four seconds.

This technique helps remove stale air from your lungs and allows for a deeper, fresh, oxygen-rich air intake. It’s beneficial during physical activity or when you feel short of breath.

2. Use a supplemental oxygen device

Supplemental oxygen may be necessary to maintain adequate oxygen levels for those with severe lung disease. Devices like portable oxygen concentrators can provide a continuous oxygen supply, making it easier to engage in daily activities.

Your Allergy A.R.T.S. specialist may recommend this as part of your treatment plan and determine the appropriate use for your condition.

3. Stay active with low-impact exercises

Regular exercise can improve your lung function and increase your oxygen intake. Low-impact exercises like walking or stationary cycling are excellent options for many individuals with chronic lung disease.

These activities help strengthen the muscles involved in breathing, improve circulation, and enhance overall endurance. Before beginning a new exercise program, check with your allergy A.R.T.S. provider.

Otherwise, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level, always listening to your body and resting when needed.

4. Practice diaphragmatic breathing

Most individuals breathe rather shallowly, with the chest seeing most of the action. Diaphragmatic or “belly breathing” engages the diaphragm more fully, improving the amount of oxygen entering the bloodstream from the lungs.

Here’s how it’s done:

• Sit or lie down in a comfortable position
• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen
• Inhale deeply through your nose
• Relax your abdomen, allowing it to rise while your chest remains still
• Exhale slowly through pursed lips, letting your lungs empty completely as your belly collapses

You may recognize this as the deep breathing encouraged when practicing yoga since it reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

5. Create healthy habits and an oxygen-rich environment

Your surroundings can impact your ability to breathe comfortably. Make your home a more oxygen-rich environment by:

• Using air purifiers to remove allergens, dust, and other airborne irritants
• Avoiding wood-burning fireplaces or smoke-filled environments
• Limiting the use of scented air fresheners, which can trigger asthma attacks
• Ventilating living spaces

Adding indoor plants known for their air-purifying properties can also improve indoor air quality.

Adequate hydration and a balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables can also help by providing essential nutrients for lung function.

Living with lung disease can be challenging, but an effective treatment strategy that includes these practical tips for breathing better can help improve your quality of life.

For top-level specialty care delivered in a patient-focused environment, schedule an evaluation at Allergy A.R.T.S. today. Call the office or request an appointment online.