Knowing how to help someone who is breathless will give you confidence. Showing them how to deal with breathlessness will also help to reduce their anxiety about attacks.
The important thing to remember is that people still breathe even when they are very breathless.
What causes breathlessness?
Breathlessness can be caused by:
- the illness itself
- secondary problems related to the illness, such as anaemia
- chest infections
- general weakness
- anxiety or stress
- chronic lung or heart disease.
How a carer can help
Carers can help someone who is breathless if they:
- Try to stay calm to help give reassurance.
- Find a relaxed and supportive resting position.
- Encourage slow sighs out as this is more effective than emphasising taking breaths in and easier to do.
- Offer distraction in the form of switching on the TV or music.
- Make sure the room is well ventilated by opening a window or using a fan.
- Check that prescribed medicine is taken regularly.
- Give medicines inbetween for bad attacks.
If someone is breathless, look for signs of infection, such as a high temperature or coughing up green phlegm. If there are signs of infection, tell your GP as they may need antibiotics.
Using oxygen
Breathlessness can persist, so if you are concerned, seek help. The doctor may prescribe oxygen. This comes in small cylinders, so you can still go out and about with someone who needs to carry oxygen.
