Sit upright or stand to help your lungs expand
Take slow, deep breaths through your nose
Exhale fully and avoid shallow breathing
Move to fresh air if you are in a stuffy or smoky place
Loosen tight clothing around your chest and neck
Use prescribed supplemental oxygen if you have been told to do so
Follow your doctor’s instructions for inhalers or breathing treatments
Rest and avoid strenuous activity if you feel short of breath
Stay hydrated
Treat underlying causes such as asthma, COPD, infection, or anemia
Seek urgent medical care if oxygen levels stay low or symptoms worsen