Tips to improve breathing:
- Plan periods of non-activity between periods of exercise and activity or
slow down your activity level while short of breath.
- Conserve your energy by taking breaks throughout the day: read, pay
bills, write letters, or use the computer for fun.
- Relax with music, meditation, and/or yoga.
If you have increased shortness of breath, follow the guidelines below:- Limit sodium and fluid for two days, then call your doctor or nurse if
your weight hasn’t decreased and/or you remain short of breath. Your doctor
or nurse will want to know your weight today and before you decreased your
sodium and fluid intake. Your medications may need to be adjusted.
- If you have increased breathlessness at night, try sleeping in a
recliner chair. Use more pillows or use a supportive cushion so you are
resting more upright. Notify your doctor or nurse about any shortness of
breath that occurs while you are trying to sleep.
Sources
www.americanheart.org/downloadable/heart/5360_HFGuidelineFinal.pdf
www.hfsa.org/hf_guidelines.asp