🌬️ Breathing Exercises & Pulmonary Rehabilitation

For mesothelioma patients, maintaining strong and healthy lungs is essential — especially before and after surgery or during ongoing treatment. Breathing exercises and pulmonary rehabilitation help strengthen lung capacity, reduce shortness of breath, and improve endurance. These techniques are safe, effective, and tailored to help you regain control of your breathing and restore confidence in daily activity.

This guide explores proven respiratory exercises, therapy programs, and practical tips that promote recovery and enhance overall well-being.

📞 Need help right now? Call 800.291.0963 for free answers and guidance today.

🫁 Step 1: Why Breathing Exercises Matter

Mesothelioma and its treatments can weaken lung function and cause stiffness in the chest wall. Over time, this can lead to shallow breathing, fatigue, and decreased oxygen flow.

Breathing exercises help by:

• 💨 Expanding the lungs for deeper oxygen intake.

• 🫁 Strengthening respiratory muscles weakened by illness or surgery.

• 💉 Reducing shortness of breath and anxiety.

• 🩺 Improving lung clearance and preventing infections.

• ⚕️ Supporting faster recovery before and after surgery.

Goal:
To train your body to breathe more efficiently, conserve energy, and increase overall lung performance.

🧘 Step 2: Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as abdominal breathing, is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the lungs and diaphragm.

How to do it:

1. Sit upright or lie on your back with shoulders relaxed.

2. Place one hand on your chest and one on your abdomen.

3. Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 seconds — your stomach should rise.

4. Exhale gently through pursed lips for 6 seconds — your stomach falls.

5. Repeat 10 times, 2–3 sessions per day.

Benefits:

• 💨 Improves oxygen exchange.

• 🧘 Promotes calmness and reduces stress.

• 💪 Strengthens the diaphragm for long-term breathing support.

💨 Step 3: Pursed-Lip Breathing

This simple yet powerful technique helps patients manage breathlessness during activity or recovery.

How to do it:

1. Breathe in through your nose for 2 seconds.

2. Purse your lips as if whistling.

3. Exhale slowly for 4–6 seconds through pursed lips.

4. Repeat until breathing feels easier.

Why it works:

• ⚖️ Keeps airways open longer.

• 🩺 Reduces trapped air in the lungs.

• 💬 Provides a sense of control during episodes of breathlessness.

Pro Tip:
Use this technique during daily tasks like walking or climbing stairs to stay calm and steady.

🧠 Step 4: Incentive Spirometry

Incentive spirometry is a common exercise used in hospitals and at home after surgery to restore lung volume and prevent collapse (atelectasis).

How to use it:

1. Sit up straight and hold the spirometer upright.

2. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and seal your lips around it.

3. Inhale deeply and slowly — watch the indicator rise.

4. Hold your breath for 2–3 seconds, then exhale normally.

5. Repeat 10 times every hour while awake.

Benefits:

• 💪 Strengthens breathing muscles.

• 🧫 Prevents pneumonia and post-surgical complications.

• 🩺 Improves oxygen delivery during recovery.

🧩 Step 5: Cough Control and Airway Clearance

Effective coughing helps clear mucus and prevents lung infections.

Controlled coughing technique:

1. Sit comfortably and take a deep breath through your nose.

2. Hold for 2–3 seconds.

3. Lean forward slightly and cough 2–3 times with your mouth slightly open.

4. Rest and repeat as needed.

Why it’s important:
Keeping airways clear enhances lung function and prevents fluid or infection buildup, especially after surgery or radiation.

🏋️ Step 6: Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to strengthen the lungs, heart, and muscles while teaching effective breathing strategies.

What it includes:

• 💨 Personalized breathing and endurance exercises.

• 🩺 Education on managing shortness of breath.

• 🧠 Anxiety and stress management techniques.

• 🥗 Nutritional guidance for better energy and healing.

• 👩‍⚕️ Ongoing monitoring by respiratory therapists.

Why it matters:
Patients who complete pulmonary rehab often experience better stamina, fewer hospitalizations, and improved emotional health.

🧘 Step 7: Gentle Activity and Posture Techniques

Improving posture and maintaining light physical activity enhances lung expansion and airflow.

Try these daily habits:

• 🪑 Sit upright during meals to reduce pressure on lungs.

• 🚶 Take short, slow walks to improve endurance.

• 🧍‍♂️ Practice shoulder rolls to loosen chest muscles.

• 🧘 Use “tripod position” (leaning forward with hands on knees) to ease breathing.

Goal:
To encourage movement and maintain lung flexibility without overexertion.

🌿 Step 8: Integrating Relaxation and Mind-Body Breathing

Emotional stress can tighten chest muscles and worsen shortness of breath. Relaxation-based breathing helps reconnect the body and mind.

Effective calming techniques:

• 🕯️ Deep breathing with calming music or aromatherapy.

• 🧠 Guided imagery — visualize open, clear lungs with each breath.

• 🧘 Meditation or gentle yoga to improve mindfulness.

• 💞 Slow rhythmic breathing during prayer or reflection.

Why it helps:
Reducing tension improves oxygen flow and helps patients feel calmer and more in control.

🤝 Where to Get Help

If you’re experiencing shortness of breath or want to improve lung strength before or after mesothelioma treatment, help is available.
Our advocates can connect you with pulmonary rehabilitation programs, respiratory therapists, and specialized exercise plans to support your recovery.

📞 Call 800.291.0963 to speak with a Mesothelioma Help Center advocate today.

🧭 Summary

Breathing exercises and pulmonary rehabilitation empower patients to take control of their recovery. Through consistent practice, improved posture, and professional guidance, you can strengthen your lungs, boost energy, and breathe easier — before, during, and after mesothelioma treatment.

You are not alone — expert help and respiratory support are only one call away.
800.291.0963