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.