Which breathing technique is commonly taught for COPD to improve ventilation?

• A. Pursed lip breathing
• B. Diaphragmatic breathing
• C. Hyperventilation
• D. Rapid shallow breathing

Answer: (A)

In COPD, focusing on methods that improve ventilation by reducing air trapping and making exhalation more effective is key. Pursed-lip breathing works by creating a slight resistance during exhalation, which raises airway pressure enough to keep small airways open longer. This slows the breathing rate, prolongs exhalation, and helps empty the lungs more completely, improving gas exchange and reducing dyspnea.

Diaphragmatic breathing aims to recruit the diaphragm more efficiently and can improve overall breathing mechanics, but it’s not specifically designed to prevent airway collapse during exhalation in COPD. Hyperventilation and rapid shallow breathing do not help; they increase work of breathing and can worsen CO2 balance and ventilation efficiency.