belly breathing?

[kookyscientist]

Hi, I heard a nurse describe a patients breathing as "belly breathing". Can anyone (if you've heard of it) explain more about it. I don't know if it is a technical term or what. Thanks!

[zumalong]

Belly Breathing (not to be confused with belly dancing) is utilized by mostly COPDers. The normal mechanisms of breathing are not working--the intercostal muscles just can't maintain proper respiration. The key is moving the stomach out to allow for greater expansion of the diaphragm. The return of the abd contents to original position increases the pressure and allows for more forced expiration (body's way of getting rid of CO2).

Hope this helps.

[kookyscientist]

Very interesting. Thanks for your help!