cpod
Has anyone got any methods to improve my respiration functions really struggling with this.
meds dont work like they use too
Comments
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Hi you need to speak to your Doctor or respiratory consultant about this.
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@DFDone Definitely ask fir a review by the Respiratory Nurse team. Have you ever been referred for Pulmonary Rehabilitation as that can help. I was recently moved onto a steroid inhaler which has helped (I had double pneumonia and after I recovered oxygen still dropped to c 84%. Since being on steroid inhaler it only drops to 87/88% and recovers to more normal level (well only c 92 to 94%) when I sit down. This newer level is considered normal for copd, mine is emphysema but a lot of inflammation and scarring in lungs from Covid. I have to really pace myself because of LC and struggle to get anything done. I'm hoping I'll be well enough to have flu jab and pneumonia jab soon. Preventing getting a chest infection is so important (sorry to state the obvious). I didn't have my heating on prior to Xmas when I got pneumonia. It's on now but I can't afford it. There is a charity Asthma Lung UK who have a helpline too, they're very good. The main advice I'd give apart from seeking specialist respiratory advice is keep warm, eat well and healthily (I can only eat every other day) and keep well hydrated, especially to protect your kidneys - and exercise/move, even if limited. The respiratory team will assess you and can prescribe nebuliser if needed and/or change your medication. Finally, think of shortcuts you can use to save your energy like use a towelling dressing gown after bath or shower and sit down so you don't waste energy using towel to dry yourself. In summer use a hand held fan when very breathless that can help to reduce the feelings not being able to breath brings. Eat small meals and eat slowly. All the best to you and I hope you can get an appt soon.
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When I was in acute respiratory distress during the pandemic I restrained my breathing by focusing on exhaling as fully as possible and breathing from my diaphragm and through my nose instead of using my ribs as they had become so painful. I also used an air filter close to my face blowing clean air on me.
I was having to sleep sitting up because I couldn't breathe lying down and was all alone with no one to support me getting to hospital so I didn't have any medical help ( still don't) I can't use inhalers anyway because they make me even more anxious and suicidal. I don't advocate using this as a substitute for medical care as I did but it could help as an additional method.
I still get very short of breath after the smallest exertion but I can manage and it is also very calming.
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II've Got copd due to being a cleaner. I'm on steroid base inhaler which helps now. Had different ones which didn't. I would see your nurse. I've yet to see a respiratory consultant and go on a pulmonary rehab , I was diagnosed 2 years ago. I had 5 chest infections last year
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Maybe you need different meds, your Dr might send you got chest x-ray also.
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Hi been for a lung function test today, but the nurse sad my heart rate was 124 and only dropped to 114 on resting also i was rough with my breathing so she wouldnt do the test.
Thanks for the insight. had covid five times get worse after each time.
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Thanks for sharing, i too have no one, that in its self is harsh. Good luck pal.
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@DFDone Hi sorry your not feeling great on current meds. Firstly as others have said tell your Doctor and ask for a meds review and see what other things they can prescribe to help. You could also ask if they could do some blood tests to check that your not anaemic which can cause breathlessness. As others have said referral to Pulmonary physio could be helpful but assume may take some time to be seen, in the meantime you could try some breathing exercises which could help, diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, improves lung function and is a good relaxation tool. Hope things improve for you soon.
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@DFDone Was your nurse sure you've not got a chest infection/need antibiotics. Are you able to check your temperature at home. I hope you're able to just rest this afternoon.
I had tachycardia in Dec (145 heart rate) that was when I had pneumonia though. I keep trying to go for flu jab but usually too ill to go/can't drive when oxygen goes too low as dizzy and can't afford a cab. I'm on my own too.
I've not been allowed to have an emergency pack at home (antibiotics and steroids) that would have helped me in Jan when I had to wait 3 wks for gp appt and then got double pneumonia by delay in getting antibiotics.
Just cos you've seen the nurse please get GP appt if you feel you need to be checked properly and to get bloods done as someone posted on here. Take care of yourself, I always feel like I don't like mithering them but after the shenanigans in Jan, I will mither in future!!
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Hi Santosha12, thanks for the good advice, may well go, had to rest today, i try too work but those days are few and far between. Take care.
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