COPD & Emphysema Support Group

COPD is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction or limitation. Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue, destruction of structures supporting the alveoli and of capillaries feeding the alveoli. Both have symptoms that include shortness of breath, among other respiratory troubles. If you are a COPD or Emphysema sufferer, join...

936 Members
10,879 Posts
0 Online
Lungs & Respiration
/ COPD & Emphysema Support Group

cant breath scared need help and advice

linda50
linda50
ok I hve been up now for two days I was just at the dr office Aug the 1st they took anx ray came bk normal............. said I had bronchitis I have 2 inhalers but not helping much I was thinking abt going to the ER just for a breathing treatment.I know I get to anxious and it makes it worse, but IM just soooooooooo tried of not sleeping. how can someone help to just calm down? I have a cough that sounds like a seal! whezzing bad when I lay down I can here it and it scares me to death! sounds like my lungs are screaming at me. I wish I had someone to talk to about this thaks for listening obtw what is purse breathing? sounds like something I need to learn!
deleted_user
deleted_user
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/chronic_obstructive_pulmonary_disease_copd/hic_pursed_lip_breathing.aspx
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hi Linda sorry your having a hard time it can be very scary not being able to breath. I'm not very experienced but I have heard others hear talk about taking a xanax to ease anxiety and thus helps your breathing. As for coughing like a seal I can clear a room in seconds when i start coughing. When I'm out and about I have people who hear me cough run for water. A while back I had to stop a lady from calling an ambulance she though dieing. So you have my sympathy regrading your cough.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I am not a doctor. I do have panic attacks (sometimes) when I get very short of breath. Ask you doctor for an anti-anxiety medication.
I do pursed lip breathing. Each of us is different. I am end stage and retain the bad air. Getting nervous is the worst thing for me, as I hyperventilate. I need to get the "bad air" out. I breathe in through my nose the count of 2 seconds and breathe out through my mouth (pursed lip) to the count of 4-6 seconds. This removes the build up of bad air and relaxes me. Also, you can place hands over your diaphragm and feel the movement. It should move out when you breathe in; and then practice moving it in when you exhale. If you get worse; please go to the emergency room. You could need a nebulizer treatment or other medical help. Best wishes to you. I know it can be quite scary; and you can help yourself by staying calm and using pursed lip breathing.
Sue825
Sue825
I really think you should follow your instincts and get to the ER. With a cough that sounds like a seal barking, you most likely have a pretty serious lung infection. Anxiety can make your breathing worse, but it won't make you sound like that. Get that breathing treatment and see what else the doctors have to say. I hope you feel better soon!
linda50
linda50
Thank you all for your input and yes I did go to the ER I HAVE
PNEUMONIA, thank god I went. I love this site helps you feel not so alone and when you can't think for yourself, someone will always help you out. even if its not something like going to the ER! lol hugs to all of you ! will keep you posted!