Are Deep Breathing Exercises Safe For Patients With COPD?

Posted on Sun, 1 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 1 Nov 2015 Answered on

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I understand there is no cure for my COPD. What can you recommend to slow its development or relieve symptoms? Can "deep breathing" be beneficial?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, deep breathing exercises are useful in COPD.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic.
I can understand your concern.
COPD is chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease. It is progressive in nature.
But with following things, you can definitely halt or decrease the rate of progression of COPD.
1. Quit smoking as soon as possible. This is the most important step.
2. Regular treatment with inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).
3. Enroll yourself in Pulmonary Rehabilitation center where chest physiotherapy and deep breathing exercises are done. These will surely improve your lung functions.
4. Vaccinate yourself with pneumococcal and Influenza vaccines to prevent recurrent respiratory tract infection.
Hope I have solved your query.
I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj