I read an interesting article about breathing through our nose. Seems that only one nostril works at a time. From what I learned we don't seem to have a choice as to which nostril, but that they do not both work at the same time. Found it interesting.

I went to pulmonary rehab recently and feel it was really worth the time and effort.I live at a senior citizen complex and we have a small exercise room so I can continue with what I learned.At rehab they suggested getting a peddler(can be used for both upper and lower body).....found it at Walmart for less than thirty dollars. I also bought some light weights.You have to keep moving people.I really have to force myself some days but it's worth it.

The"exercise" you spoke of is called pursed lip breathing. It does help to get us out of the gasping or panting for breath at that moment in time. It isn't an exercise per se but it's a very useful tool for extreme shortness of breath. It has no residual effects though. Pulmonary Rehab is something all people with COPD should go to and it does have notable improvement potential for those who are committed to it. It's a shame your pulmonologist hasn't suggested it to you. Next time you see him/her discuss it and say you'd like to learn about it and attend a program for it. I would be happy to provide more information should anyone want it.

What you describe is much like pursed lip breathing, which is inhale and then exhale through pursed lips as though you were blowing on soup to cool it for at least twice as long as you inhaled. You don't have to inhale through your nose; in fact, most people who use this breathing technique for exercise don't. They inhale through their mouth and exhale through their mouth. Where or how you inhale makes no difference; the important part is the exhale and making sure that your exhale is twice as long as your inhale. Many people count their way through it, which is what made me suspect your friend was trying to describe pursed lip breathing. It is definitely a good way to breathe in the middle of a panic attack. It's also a useful technique to use when exercising.

If your doc hasn't suggested pulmonary rehab, have you asked for it? Exercise is critical to making progress with this disease, so it's important that you take the initiative and ask. If you're not seeing a pulmonologist, I would suggest that you find one who is much more likely to be aware of best practices in both overall treatment plans and medications.

It's also called the 4-7-8 method. It also works wonders to help fall asleep!