Fighting COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is one of the most common lung diseases. It makes breathing, an involuntary action people often take for granted, a very difficult task.

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• There are two main forms of COPD, chronic bronchitis, which involves a long-term cough with mucus, and emphysema, which involves destruction of the lungs over time. • Most people with COPD have a combination of both conditions.

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If your loved one has COPD, there is plenty you can do to help. • However, understand it’s a tall task and can become exhausting. • There are good days and bad days with COPD. • “Cabin fever” is common for both the patient and family members, along with depression.

Here are some things you can do as a family caregiver to make your loved one’s life easier

Avoiding crises with COPDWith bad times and occasional rushing to the ER, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, with the COPD Management Tool, developed by the American Lung Association, you can develop a plan of action with your doctor. It allows you to prevent crises through disease management.

Breathing and anxiety: Proven relaxation techniquesFirst, to help breathing, breathe slowly through your nose, counting to five. Then exhale slowly, counting to five, and repeat. Also, you can use muscle relaxation. Tense and relax your muscles, counting to five while tensing and to 30 when relaxing. Also, visualize yourself at a peaceful place, such as a beach or mountains.

Eat smarterLimit sugary food. Fats produce the least carbon dioxide, which we need to exhale out of our bodies. Also, limit foods that produce gas, like carbonated beverages, and stay away from salt. Two servings a day of protein is recommended, because it maintains respiratory muscles. For eating habits, consider eating four to six small meals a day and eat earlier in the day.

Prevent fatigueIn order to stay energized and on top of things, plan for the entire day and pace activities. Allow ample time for what needs to get done, alternate activity with rest, work smarter and get help when you can. Also, sit down whenever possible. Learning to operate on “cruise control” can help a loved one get the most out of his or her energy.

Beat “cabin fever”Reach out to people by maintaining relationships with friends and family. Create personal, stay active and get out of the house. Finally, family caregivers shouldn’t hesitate to talk to a doctor if they think they may be depressed.

Prepare for the ERCOPD can result in frequent trips to the ER. Create a kit equipped with medical information, insurance information, advance directive (preferences for life-sustaining treatment), a change of clothes and stress-relieving supplies such as water, snacks or reading material. At the ER, support your loved one with calm attention, provide information to the staff if needed, ask for periodic updates, observe and take notes and get instructions.

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