Pursed-lip breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a simple technique that involves exhaling through tightly pressed (pursed) lips and inhaling through the nose with the mouth closed. It's often used to help people with COPD or other conditions that affect the lungs and breathing.

Overview

Pursed-lip breathing can help to reduce breathlessness and promote relaxation, making it easier for people with lung conditions to exercise and carry out daily activities. It can also help to improve the efficiency of the lungs and increase the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream.

Technique

The technique involves the following steps:

1. Inhale slowly through the nose, keeping the mouth closed. This should take about two seconds.
2. Pucker or "purse" the lips as if blowing out a candle.
3. Exhale slowly and steadily through the pursed lips. This should take about four seconds.
4. Repeat the process.

Benefits

Pursed-lip breathing has several benefits for people with lung conditions. It can help to:

• Improve lung ventilation
• Release trapped air in the lungs
• Keep the airways open longer and decrease the work of breathing
• Prolong exhalation to slow the breathing rate
• Improve breathing patterns by moving old air out of the lungs and allowing for new air to enter the lungs
• Relieve shortness of breath

See also

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Breathing exercises
• Respiratory therapy