Pulmonary, Sleep, and Critical Care Medicine
Appointments: 864-573-6320
Fax: 864-573-6323

Shortness of Breath

Short of Breath? Tips for COPD Breathlessness

Whether you have COPD or someone you love has COPD, an episode of breathlessness can wreak havoc with your emotions.

Breathlessness is a common symptom of a COPD exacerbation. Since we all need oxygen to live, the feeling of not being able to get enough air can trigger a “suffocation alarm.” The natural response is anxiety and panic. But the more someone panics, the more muscles in the body tighten. That makes it even more difficult to breathe.