Deep breathing after surgery

After surgery it is important to take an active role in your recovery. One way to do so is by doing deep breathing exercises.

Deep breathing keeps your lungs well-inflated and healthy while you heal. Many people feel weak and sore after surgery, and taking big breaths can be uncomfortable. But if you do not do deep breathing after surgery, you may develop lung problems, like pneumonia .

A device called an incentive spirometer can help you take deep breaths correctly. If you do not have this device, you can still practice deep breathing on your own.

How to Breathe Deeply

Following measures should be taken:

• Sit upright. It may help to sit at the edge of the bed with your feet hanging over the side. If you cannot sit like this, raise the head of your bed as high as you can.
• If your surgical cut (incision) is on your chest or belly, you may need to hold a pillow tightly over your incision. This helps with some of the discomfort.
• Take a few normal breaths, then take a slow, deep breath in.
• Hold your breath for about 2 to 5 seconds.
• Gently and slowly breathe out through your mouth. Make an "O" shape with your lips as you blow out, like blowing out birthday candles.
• Repeat 10 to 15 times, or as many times as your doctor or nurse told you.
• Do these deep-breathing exercises as directed by your doctor or nurse.