Breathless when sitting propped up on couch

[greatauntali]

Does anyone else have problems breathing when sitting propped up? I had a cardiac ultrasound yesterday and had major problems breathing when she wanted me to lie on the couch. I had difficulty with this before when I tried to have a bath but thought it was a one off.

She propped me up as far as she could in order to still be able to do the ultrasound but she was really concerned about my sats. which were at 89/90. She managed to get the scan and said that my heart was " coping " so she had no major concerns there but she wanted to call a doctor about my breathing. As this would have resulted in a hospital stay, I refused her offer.

I am scheduled to have a CT scan sometime but she said that there was no way that I would be able to cope with that so at least I know now.

[stone-UK]

Hi

I have problems lying flat and on my side, which like you gave problems when I had Echo cardio graph.

I found using the inclined bed therapy works, raise top end of bed by six inches.

[greatauntali in reply to stone-UK]

I don't think I explained very well. Like most of us, I cannot lie flat and have to have the top end of the bed raised but seem to have a huge problem breathing when I sit with my legs straight out. No problems sitting in a chair but I cannot sit up in bed. I can sit on the edge of it.

I can lie on my right side as long as my head is raised.

[Caspiana]

Hi greatauntali . 👋

I think many of us with lung issues find it hard to lie flat. I can't lie flat. I always have to have my head raised or else I feel like I am suffocating. It is horrible when we have to lie flat for tests. 😔

I'm sorry for your uncomfortable experience. Please take it easy.

Sending hugs,

Cas xx 🌿🍃

[Hidden]

Hello Greatauntali

I am always propped up in bed with a cushion under my knees these days.

Even when I go for a scan or mri they put a small cushion under my head.

If I am congested or for no reason I can think of I sometimes have trouble breathing early morning or early evening. Then I take Ventolin/Salbutamol puffs.

I am not on O2.

Hope your doctor finds a solution.

Take care x

Fran