Learning About Changing Your Position for Breathing

What are proning and repositioning?

Proning and repositioning your body may help you feel better if you have mild trouble breathing. Changing positions can help your lungs work better. You rotate through positions in bed: lying on your belly ("proning"), on your right and left sides, and sitting up.

How do you prepare?

It's important to do proning and repositioning only if it is safe for you to do. You need to be able to move your body around in bed by yourself. Don't try a position if it's uncomfortable. Reasons for this may include:

• Recent belly surgery.
• Weakness or pain anywhere.
• Any condition that may make it hard to lie on your belly or sides.

Lie flat on your belly

Lie on your right side

Sit up in bed or in a chair

Lie on your left side

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if you have life-threatening symptoms, such as:

• You have severe trouble breathing.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse trouble breathing.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.