Mailbag: Everyday Activities Leaving You Winded? Try THIS

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted July 2, 2024

“I find myself getting winded more easily these days, even when doing simple tasks like walking up a flight of stairs. Should I be concerned? How can I resolve this?”

– Harold

It’s definitely worth paying attention to changes in your body, especially when you feel more winded than usual. While it’s not always a cause for major concern, it’s a good idea to get it checked out.

There could be a few reasons why someone might be getting winded more easily. It might be related to fitness level, an underlying health condition, loss of muscle mass, or even things like stress or anxiety.

Now, let’s talk about the difference between being winded and experiencing shortness of breath.

Being winded is feeling out of breath after physical exertion, like running or climbing stairs. It’s a normal response to exercise and usually disappears after a few minutes of rest.

On the other hand, shortness of breath is a more persistent feeling of not being able to get enough air, even when you’re not exerting yourself. It can come on suddenly or gradually and may be accompanied by other symptoms like chest tightness or wheezing.

If you ever experience shortness of breath, especially if it’s severe or sudden, it’s vital to seek medical care immediately.

However, I often explain to my patients that once they’re sure what they’re experiencing is NOT shortness of breath, they can do several simple things to help overcome feeling winded.

• Start with some gentle exercise, like walking or swimming, and gradually increase the intensity as they feel more comfortable.
• Practice deep breathing exercises to help strengthen the lungs.
• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to fuel the body properly.
• Smokers should quit because the habit negatively affects lung health and breathing.

Remember, we tend to lose muscle mass as we age, which can affect our health from head to toe and make us feel winded. So, make sure you’re doing something daily to use all of your muscles, including your respiratory muscles.

P.S. This common nutrient could help keep your lungs in tip-top shape.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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