Coping Strategies

  • Sit down when washing, dressing or preparing food.
  • Resist the temptation to hold your breath when dressing and undressing.
  • Avoid bending down, and make use of equipment and aids such as grip bars or walking frames. An occupational therapist may be able to come to your home to assess which aids may be helpful for you. Referral to an occupational therapist can be made by your GP or hospital doctor.
  • Keep items that you use often within easy reach around your home.
  • Wear loose clothing around your waist and chest.
  • Increase the flow of air around you by opening windows or using a fan.
  • Don't have baths that are too hot, and avoid using a shower on your face.
  • Pace activities throughout the day to conserve energy. Plan or set goals for activities and balance periods of rest with those of activities.
  • When climbing up stairs or a slope breathe in on one step, on the next step breathe out and then wait a moment. Then repeat.
  • Have a massage to the head and shoulders, using aromatherapy oils such as lavender for relaxation.
  • Pause before speaking and after each sentence.
  • If having sex, it can be easier if you are aware of activities or positions that are less likely to make you feel breathless.
  • Consider using a wheelchair for long distances. You can get a wheelchair from your occupational therapist or organisations such as the British Red Cross, Dial UK, Assist UK or the Disabled Living Foundation may be able to help you.
  • Make relaxation a part of your daily routine (see our page on Relaxation techniques).

Condition-specific information

Further information on conditions that may be affecting you or those around you:

Support Groups

Visit the NHS inform Support Services Directory to search for local organisations that may help with the issues you are facing:

Last updated: 15 January 2012

This content was supplied by Macmillan Cancer Support.