talking with emphysema
Does anyone have trouble with their breathing and pressure and fatigue after talking? I was a big talker and now I can only talk for a few minutes as after speaking I am out of breath, have chest pressure, and feel fatigued. Sometimes the symptoms don't subside even after I rest awhile. Any thoughts? Thank you. Lynn
Hi ldsbs (Lynn), and thanks for your post. While I am hopeful others in the community will see your inquiry and respond by sharing their own personal experiences, I have something to say too.
If these symptoms (shortness of breath, chest pressure and, a feeling of fatigue), are new for you or, are persistent, you may want to bring this to the attention of the physician who provides your care. Perhaps there is a new development in your condition (emphysema), that requires an adjustment to your treatment and/or medication regimen. What do you think?
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
I do all of the above. And while I'm struggling with that I start stuttering. I was told I didn't get enough 02 and it caused me to start stuttering when I get winded. 
Hi idsbs 24. Same same. Ex teacher/lecturer and loved the sound of my own voice. With end stage COPD and emphysema I simply have not got the breath. To begin with, around four years back I really grieved for my voice! Does that make sense? But .... I met an amazing priest who lost a lung after an accident but still preaches lengthy sermons. I asked him how he did it? He said "I am a man of measured words" I love that. He says less but means more. I so aspire to that. I hope you are still managing to speak I see the post is from last year, at least speaking with those that are close and support you. I have to say my wife secretly enjoys me saying less!! Hahaha.
My doctor has tried every inhaler and they help for awhile and then stop working. My problem is that my symptoms are severe, but my oxygen level is good. My Dr. said that happens sometimes.
I have a weekly visit with girlfriends from church for coffee that always leaves me breathless, but then, we're all women and we all talk up a storm! The only thing I've found that helps is to sit against the back of my chair instead of leaning forward, resting my arms on the table. It's something of a relief to know I'm not the only one who gets worn out from talking. I love this forum!
It's interesting to me how you've found that sitting back in your chair and keeping your arms on the table are useful -- those are both skills that are taught for efficient breathing! Good posture and body support are so important to give your lungs the chance to expand and deflate as fully as possible. Do you know about pursed lip breathing? This is a key technique encouraged by respiratory health professionals, not just for when you are breathless but also to strengthen the lungs when practiced regularly. It's simple to do -- here's a video about it.
Maybe pursed lip breathing will help you feel more comfortable when you're doing lots of chatting. 😀 -Melissa, COPD.net team
