Asthma is a serious condition that requires a proper diagnosis and treatment. Roughly 25 million Americans suffer from the condition. Working with an asthma specialist is imperative to effectively controlling your asthma. Most asthma patients have a number of medications that assist in managing the condition. However, breathing exercise can supplement your medication to improve your symptoms. It’s important to note that breathing exercises should not be a substitute for asthma medication. Below you will find the most effective breathing exercises for asthma.
Breathing Exercises for Asthma
Recent research studies have shown the benefits of breathing exercises for asthma patients. Not only can it improve your breathing, but it can also improve your overall quality of life. Work with your asthma specialist to determine which breathing exercises are right for you. Consider the following breathing exercises that have benefited those with the condition.
Buteyko Breathing Method
The breathing method uses a series of exercises to help you breathe slower and deeper. Research has indicated that the method may improve unwanted asthma symptoms and reduce the need for medication. However, this should not replace your asthma treatment plan without clearance from your asthma specialist in New York City. Consider the following steps to successfully perform the Buteyko breathing method.
- Breathe normally for a short period of time
- Hold your breath by pinching your nose with your fingers after a long, relaxed exhale
- Hold your breath until you feel the urge to breathe, and then inhale
- Breathe normally for 10 seconds and then repeat the cycle a few times
Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise
This breathing exercise involves learning how to breathe from the area around your diaphragm. The diaphragm is the dome-shaped muscle below your lungs that helps you breathe. Many people breathe from their chest. However, this breathing exercise helps you strengthen your diaphragm and slow down your breathing. This decreases your body’s oxygen needs and the ultimate goal is to be able to breathe without your chest moving. Consider the following steps to successfully perform the diaphragmatic breathing exercise.
- Lie down on your back, place a pillow under your knees, and then bend them.
- Put one of your hands flat on your chest and your other hand on your stomach
- Begin to slowly breathe through your nose, and then slowly breathe out and purse your lips
Nasal Breathing Exercise
Breathing through your nose offers a variety of benefits. In fact, research has indicated that breathing through has been linked with more severe asthma symptoms. Nasal breathing is highly beneficial as it adds humidity and warmth to your nasal area which can assist in reducing unwanted asthma symptoms. Nasal breathing involves slowly breathing in and out your nose with your mouth closed.
The Papworth Method
This is a decades old breathing exercise that combines two different breathing techniques. They also include relaxation training techniques for a more comprehensive experience. The Papworth method involves breathing slowly and steadily from your diaphragm and through your nose. It essentially combines diaphragmatic and nasal breathing to achieve steady breathing that promotes relaxation. This method has had excellent results for those with asthma as it not only improves unwanted symptoms, but can also improve your overall quality of life.
Asthma Doctor in Long Island
If you are suffering from asthma, or think you may have the condition, seek help from a medical professional. A skilled asthma doctor can diagnose your condition and get you on a treatment plan that works for you. Dr. Shukla is the top asthma doctor in Long Island and has helped countless patients effectively manage their asthma. Contact his office today to schedule a consultation!
