Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
November 23, 2015
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members widely shared experiences of unexpected shortness of breath from simple activities like tying shoes, showering, or walking between... Read more

Members widely shared experiences of unexpected shortness of breath from simple activities like tying shoes, showering, or walking between rooms, with many initially attributing it to weight gain or being out of shape before wondering if fibromyalgia itself could be the cause. Several members offered practical strategies that have helped them, including taking deep breaths before activity to prepare weakened muscles, practicing rhythmic breathing techniques for mindfulness, improving posture with shoulders down and chest out, and recognizing that shallow breathing from chronic pain forces the body to periodically catch up. A recurring theme was the emotional toll of feeling dismissed by doctors who called symptoms just a perception, the fear when breathing struggles frighten family members, and the relief of finding a community that validates these real and frightening experiences.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Maybe this will help answer some of your concerns. http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalg...

November 26, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

I do, sometimes just from tying shoes, bending over, suddenly moving...I just blamed it on this extra weight I've put on!!!! But I was wondering if it could be the fibro. Other times, I can do my cardio and no problem. ?????

November 23, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes definitely!! I am at the doctor right now doing a stress test (which monitors the heart while you walk on a treadmill). The cardiologist was very doubtful though that there is a hear problem. He said my shortness of breath is just my perception. I disagree. My osteopath said its because chest muscles are tight. He said work on posture, shoulders down, chest out, and do chest opening exercises. I also try to do rhythmic breathing (in for 4, out for 7- I learned this as a mindfulness technique) and just focus on making sure I am breathing enough as I walk

November 24, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

The lungs ate effected by muscle weakness. Before doing anything strenuous to you specific pain or weakness of the moment try taking a couple deep breaths. In for count of ten out for count of ten say for 3-5 breaths. Breath normal in between as to not get lightheaded. Then walk a bit brisk around the room for a moment to wake up those muscles. Helps me. Gentle hugs

November 24, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yup I do quite often! Randomly happens when doing something so small and if I get up too fast etc. Also when I'm really stressed out I find it gets worse and I have to stop what I'm doing and take a few deep breaths to get back on track otherwise I get dizzy

November 24, 2015

Related Questions

View All
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Billingham, UK

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rogers, AR

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In