Feel like Im suffocating when I run

brian12 · 07-14-2009, 02:58 AM

When I run I can't seem to get enough oxygen. I end up having to slow down to a walk, not because my legs and body can't keep going but because I can't get enough air. I'm wondering what I can do to help my situation.

NoMurrcy · 07-14-2009, 03:16 AM

keep walking. its obvious your cardiovascular system is in pretty bad shape. if all you can handle is walking for now then walk. go for high volume (long walks). try for anywhere between 30-60 minutes to start but you're going to need to go for longer as you progress. eventually you'll be able to jog at a moderate pace and then handle a running speed, but you will have to build to this.

Rusteh101 · 07-14-2009, 08:14 AM

try an elliptical trainer to build your cardio to the point where you can start running.

dan_torres · 07-14-2009, 09:15 AM

If you have a bike try cycling. Not too slowly and long distances.

bjjaz · 07-14-2009, 11:30 AM

If not maybe think medical, some kind of pulmonary embolism, high blood pressure, diabestes, copd, lung disease, and that is if you are in good shape and still hurtin for air.

EndoGlo · 07-14-2009, 12:15 PM

All of the above are good suggestions. Perhaps you are just out of shape.

Fast Walking for long distances is a good suggestion.
Elliptical is a great suggestion.
Cycling is a good suggestion as well.

There are multiple possibilities. Perhaps you are just not breathing right. You need to control your breathing. Some try to breath through there nose to help them. Others lift their arms above their head in order to get more oxygen. Again, maybe you are out of shape, then again... perhaps you do have a medical condition.

What is you conditioning level, what exercises do you typically do, how far and at what pace are you running? If you really believe it's an issue and not because you are not fit, then go see a doctor.

pliftkl · 07-14-2009, 12:17 PM

Get a heart rate monitor and figure out what your heart is doing when you are running.

I ran a lot when I was younger, and I was pretty fast. I then started lifting a lot and stopped running. When I returned to running (40 pounds of muscle heavier), my brain wanted to run at the pace that I ran when I was younger, but my body just wouldn't keep up. I've used the heart rate monitor to slow my pace down to keep my HR at or below 150 during my running. Over a couple of months, I've seen my resting heart rate drop, and my running speeds and distance increase.

If a HR monitor indicates that you are having oxygen problems when the heart rate is below 140, I'd urge you to see a doctor to rule out any underlying cardiac or respiratory problems.

brian12 · 07-14-2009, 11:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjjaz

If not maybe think medical, some kind of pulmonary embolism, high blood pressure, diabestes, copd, lung disease, and that is if you are in good shape and still hurtin for air.

I do have high blood pressure. Its why Im trying to start to run again. I don't think there is anything seriously wrong with me. Its just annoying that my legs and body can keep going but I don't have the oxygen to do it.

Gilbert · 07-14-2009, 11:59 PM

Thats a big problem if it bothers you that much. I have highblood pressure in my genetics but it doesn't stop me from running. Have you or do you smoke? Do you work or live where there is bad air pollution?

village_idiot · 07-15-2009, 12:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjjaz

If not maybe think medical, some kind of pulmonary embolism, high blood pressure, diabestes, copd, lung disease, and that is if you are in good shape and still hurtin for air.

^^ this

My dad died last year from artery blockage after showing those same wierd symptoms (although much more extreme symptoms). I highly doubt its the same thing, but I would check your diet and consider your heart.