What should my lung capacity be

Fortunately, there are exercises that can help maintain and increase lung capacity, making it easier to keep your lungs healthy and get your body the oxygen it needs. The technique best used when feeling rested. If you have COPD, ask your doctor or respiratory therapist to show you how to use this exercise for best results. Pursed-lips breathing can slow down your breathing, reducing the work of breathing by keeping your airways open longer.

This makes it easier for the lungs to function and improves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This breathing exercise is often easier for beginners than diaphragmatic breathing, and you can do it at home even if no one has showed you how.

It can be practiced at any time. Prevention is the best medicine, and working to keep your lungs healthy is much more efficient than trying to repair them after something goes wrong. To keep your lungs healthy, do the following:. Read this article in Spanish. Try to do it the same way each time. Keep a chart of your peak flow rates. Discuss the readings with your healthcare provider. For more details, you can read through these flow meter instructions at the Mayo Clinic website.

Share this post. More Reading:. Read More. See more posts. The lower your FEV1 percentage, the less air your lungs are able to handle. People at this stage may not have shortness of breath and may not know that their lungs aren't as healthy as they should be.

People at this stage get out of breath with just a little activity. When symptoms get worse, they can be life-threatening. If you don't understand your lung function numbers, ask your doctor to explain them for you. To help make the best treatment plan for you, your doctor will look at your FEV1, your symptoms, and what other health problems you have.

Yoneda MD - Pulmonology. Author: Healthwise Staff. Medical Review: E. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Pursed lip breathing Belly breathing Interval training Tips When do they work? Summary Certain exercises can help the lungs work more efficiently. Pursed lip breathing. Belly breathing. Interval training. Tips for preserving lung health.

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