Small Lung Obstruction?

Sorry, I can't answer your question re:small lung obstruction.  It depends on what the x-ray/MRI showed.

I can answer the question re:difficulty breathing out.  This is a frequent problem for most asthmatics.  There is a breathing exercise called pursed-lip breathing used to prevent shortness of breath when you do things like exercising, climbing stairs, and bending or lifting.  By "getting the old" (carbon dioxide)out, your lungs are able to allow more fresh" (oxygenenriched) air in.

Step 1:  Relax your neck & shoulder muscles.  Inhale slowly through your nose for two counts.

Step 2: Pucker your lips as if you were going to blow out a candle.  Exhale slowly & gently through your lips for 4 or more counts.

Remember:  Always EXHALE FOR LONGER THAN YOU INHALE.  This allows your lungs to empty as much as possible.  EXHALE DURING THE DIFFICULT PART of any activity, such as when you bend, lift, or reach.  NEVER, NEVER hold your breath.

Hope this helps.

Education info only & not meant as medical advise. 

Dear Toodles: It is scary, but there are txs out there to fight back. Just remember that knowledge is power!

Good luck!

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Asthma is one of the diseases in the group (it is also classisfied as a restrictive disease).

Yes, it's a group of diseases that causes obstructive breathing patterns. Asthma is one of these, but is also listed as restrictive. Obstructive means the breath gets in, but has a hard time getting out. Restrictive means the breath has a hard time getting in. With an asthma pt, especially one in exacerbation or has air trapping, it's hard to get the breath in because "old" air has not been able to leave the lung (that is why pursed lip breathing is used). Pursed lip breathing is used in COPD to control shortness of breath. Hope this info helps understand.

Knowledge is power!