Do you ever feel you can’t catch your breath? Or maybe you’re breathing fast and shallow? If so, you may have shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath is a feeling that you can’t take in enough air. It may be mild or severe, and it can last for a few minutes or several hours.
Many things can cause shortness of breath. Some things are serious, and others are not.
If you have trouble breathing, it’s important to know what’s causing it so you can get the right treatment. Here are several conditions that can cause shortness of breath.
1. Anxiety
Feeling anxious or stressed out can make you breathe rapidly. When you’re anxious, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode. This means your breathing speeds up to get more oxygen.
Try taking some slow, deep breaths to override the fast breathing. Picture your belly expanding like a balloon as you inhale through your nose. Exhaling slowly through pursed lips can also help you regain control of your breathing.
2. Allergies
Sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes are classic allergy symptoms. But allergies can also cause breathing problems when nasal passages swell up.
Your nose is connected to the back of your throat. So when your nose gets congested, breathing through your mouth may feel easier.
Try using a saline nasal spray to relieve congestion. An antihistamine may also help open up your airways.
3. Smoking
The chemicals in cigarettes irritate the lining of your airways, making them swell up and narrow. This makes it harder for air to flow in and out of your lungs. And if you have asthma, a smoking addiction can make it even worse.
You can quit smoking with hypnosis. Or you can try using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
Whatever you do, don’t give up. The faster you quit, the better the chances of not getting lung cancer and a host of other diseases.
4. Heartburn
That burning feeling in your chest may seem like a breathing problem. But heartburn is stomach acid splashing up into the esophagus.
However, it can create chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and taking antacids can help prevent attacks. Don’t lie down right after eating since gravity helps keep acid down in the stomach.
5. Your Out of Shape
If you’re huffing and puffing from everyday activities, you may be out of shape. Not exercising enough can decrease lung capacity. This can make you feel breathless quicker.
The good news is you can train your breathing muscles through cardio exercise. Start slowly and work up to 30 minutes of walking or jogging several times a week. You can also try yoga or tai chi, which are both good for your lungs.
Trouble Breathing? Implement Simple Lifestyle Changes to Breathe Easier
If you’re having trouble breathing, it’s important to see a doctor. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment options.
In the meantime, some simple lifestyle changes may help you breathe easier. By following these tips, you can breathe easier right away.
For more wellness tips and tricks, check out the latest articles on our blog!