Tips on Managing Breathing Difficulties Geriatrics Many people have difficulties in breathing, especially for those with lung, heart, kidney and liver problems. Breathing difficulties during the day may make it hard for you to take part in your usual daily activities, resulting in poorer quality of life. Breathing difficulties can also make you anxious and this makes it harder for you to sleep. Some tips on how to cope with your breathing difficulty ☐ Keep yourself calm. ☐ Keep the room windows open.
☐ Wear loose clothes to keep yourself comfortable. ☐ Take your medicine given by your doctor. ☐ Save your energy, for example by putting things within your reach and resting in between activities. ☐ Use oxygen if available. ☐ Breathing method: breathe in through your nose then breathe out through your mouth and lips as shown below.
☐ Keep a fan in the room to allow air to circulate in the room. ☐ Sit upright using pillows to support your back.
☐ Relax, for example by listening to soothing music.
However, if the shortness of breath does not get better after you have tried the above, inform your doctor who may prescribe medicine or oxygen to help improve your symptoms.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
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