Breathlessness Prevention:

Shortness of breath or breathlessness can occur due to a variety of reasons and there is no standard way of defining this condition. Some people experience breathlessness when mild physical activity is performed, without there being any underlying medical condition present. Similarly, in some people with lung conditions, there may be a difficulty in inhaling and exhaling, but there may not be a problem of breathlessness. As such defining this condition is difficult. Shortness of breath to a moderate extent is perfectly normal and can occur in conditions such as congestion of the nose. Engaging in sudden strenuous physical activity can also have this effect. Breathing difficulties can also be indicative of certain illnesses in which case medical examination is required. Some types of breathing difficulties are wheezing, lung disease, apnea and rapid breathing.

The reason why shortness of breath occurs could be varied. Breathing could become difficult when the airways of the mouth, throat and nose become blocked due to any kind of obstruction. Mucus congestion is usually the cause of this. Difficulty in breathing also occurs when there is an obstruction in the form of a piece of food that has become lodged in the throat, thereby blocking the trachea. Heart conditions in which the heart is not able to pump an adequate supply of blood to the rest of the body can also result in shortness of breath. Breathlessness can also develop when the brain, vital organs of the body or the muscles do not receive enough oxygen to function properly. Anxiety and panic attacks can also result in shortness of breath. More specific factors that can trigger breathlessness are asthma, emphysema, lung disease, pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, heart disease and coronary artery disease. Also, factors such as high altitudes, pollutants in the environment, allergies, gastrointestinal reflux disease and obesity may also be triggers for breathing difficulties.

If you suffer from breathing problems, the best way to prevent outbreaks of this condition is to eliminate the triggers such as dust and other allergens in the environment. Avoid smoking and also avoid inhaling second hand smoke. If asthma is the cause of the breathlessness, the appropriate medication must be sought at the earliest. Avoid alcohol intake as this could have an adverse effect on respiratory functions. Employ breathing techniques to regulate proper breathing. Aerobic exercises also help in promoting the health of the lungs. Aromatherapy is very beneficial in relieving problems of congestion. Taking warm baths using essential oils will soothe airways and stimulate proper breathing. Inhalation can also be done by adding essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender oil to hot water. People who are overweight usually face breathlessness, and as such it is important to keep your weight in check. Consuming onion regularly is also known to be effective in treating breathing difficulties.