Which technique is most effective in providing relief of dyspnea for a patient with COPD?

• A. Pursed-lip breathing
• B. Deep breathing with inhalation hold
• C. Forceful coughing
• D. Rapid breathing

Answer: (A)

The main idea is using controlled exhalation to relieve dyspnea in COPD by stabilizing the airways and reducing the work of breathing. Pursed-lip breathing works best because breathing out through slightly pressed lips creates a small amount of back pressure in the airways. That back pressure helps keep small airways from collapsing during expiration, slows the expiratory flow, and lengthens the time spent exhaling. With a longer, gentler exhale, air trapping and dynamic hyperinflation are reduced, which lowers the respiratory rate and the effort required to breathe. This technique is simple to learn and can be used during episodes of breathlessness to provide noticeable relief.

Deep breathing with an inhalation hold can increase inspiratory time but may not address expiratory airflow effectively and can contribute to air trapping. Forceful coughing is aimed at clearing secretions, not specifically easing dyspnea. Rapid, shallow breathing increases the work of breathing and tends to worsen breathlessness.