ASTHMA ANXIETY

Being unable to breathe comfortably causes excessive anxiety in some asthma patients.  Since anxiety is often manifested by rapid, shallow breathing, being anxious during an asthma attack can inhibit the proper delivery of inhaled medications to the lungs.  Two simple ways to slow respiration are drinking liquids and controlling breath rate.  Sipping water or a flavored liquid distracts the body from the anxiety symptoms, and swallowing requires slower breathing.  Regulated breathing can also help in regaining control of air flow.  Inhale deeply, hold air in the lungs for several seconds, and then exhale very slowly through pursed lips.  After several well-controlled breaths, anxiety symptoms may lessen sufficiently to allow inhaled asthma medications to be used effectively.

P.S.  Practice controlled breathing techniques on a regular basis so that you can control your breathing rate in stressful situations.

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