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Why Is My O2 Sat 96,97 And I’m Short Of Breath. I’m 75 Female With COPD Cad

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Tampa, FL
September 14
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A MyCOPDTeam Member

In my experience, SOB - even with good saturation numbers - can result from anxiety/depression, exertion, increased CO2, reduced lung capacity, or any combination of these. If it continues, you may want to check in with your pulmonologist.

September 14
A MyCOPDTeam Member

My Dr. put me on 0.5 mg of lorazepam twice a day for "air hunger". Between that and breathing exercises, my SOB has been reduced in intensity which for me at stage 4 is a great relief. Breathing exercises for me is concentrating on exhaling as much air from lungs to remove "trapped" air.

September 18 (edited)
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I'm finding that if I practice pursed lip or deep breathing as often as I think of it, things go better for me personally, especially before going to sleep. I also deep breathe from my diaphragm, because I think it needs to stay as pliable as possible. May be whistling Dixie there, but it keeps me involved in my own well being.

September 15
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Hi SandraPeacock2, welcome. There are several possibilities on why. You need to talk it over with your pulmonologist. My Dr calls it "air trapping." With emphysema I don't exchange air as easily and I don't get all the air out of my lungs. Thus trapping some air in my lungs causing the SOB. I have to do pursed lipped breathing and some breathing exercises to clear my lungs.
But it was that conversation with my Dr. that helped me understand why and what to do about it. The most case is you are not exchanging CO2 and that can be dangerous for you.

September 15
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I also am SOB with good SPO2 readings. Believe anxiety has a lot to do with it even though I'm not aware I'm anxious.

September 19

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