Skip to main content

Protecting Those with a Progressive Lung Disease During a Pandemic

Individuals diagnosed with a progressive lung disease, such as COPD, have had to stay especially  watchful since the COVID-19 pandemic started, because they are likely at both a higher risk for contracting the virus along with developing more severe complications as a result. A newly released research study published by the European Respiratory Journal reported that COPD patients were more likely to be admitted to the ICU, require ventilator care, and succumb to the virus than those without the disease.

And while the CDC provides strategies for all of us in order to prevent getting the illness, such as regular handwashing, social distancing, and staying home as much as possible, one recommendation is especially a challenge for someone with breathing difficulties: wearing a face covering. The American Lung Association advises that individuals diagnosed with COPD try a number of different kinds of coverings to discover one that’s most comfortable, and wear the mask around the house for brief periods of time in order to become more familiar with the sensation.

Additional recommendations include:

  • Continue to manage your COPD as suggested by the physician, with adjustments to restrict your exposure to others, such as telehealth appointments and mail-order prescriptions.
  • Improve your immune system with a healthier diet and lots of rest, and make sure to follow the physician’s recommended treatment plan.
  • Take good care of your emotional health to lower stress. Turn off the news and social media and participate in relaxing and enjoyable activities instead. And make sure to check with a mental health professional as necessary for assistance with managing stress and preventing depression.

Of particular significance for people with a progressive lung disease is the importance of regular physical exercise. According to David Au, MD, professor at the University of Washington Medical School’s division of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine, since COPD causes shortness of breath, physical activity is particularly challenging. He, and the Respiratory Health Association, recommend (with doctor’s approval):

  • Strive for no less than half an hour of exercise every day, at least 3 times every week.
  • Try leg lifts, marching in place, and arm circles, utilizing canned goods or small weights.
  • Go up and down stairs.
  • Incorporate yoga breathing exercises.

These resources provide more helpful tips targeted to COPD challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic:

For reliable in-home care for those diagnosed with a progressive lung disease like COPD or any other chronic conditions, get in touch with Heaven at Home Senior Care, one of the leading home health agencies in Denton, TX and the surrounding area. Our staff are fully trained and experienced in providing individualized care to help make life safer and more enjoyable. You can reach us any time at (940) 380-0500.

The post Protecting Those with a Progressive Lung Disease During a Pandemic appeared first on Heaven at Home Senior Care.



from Heaven at Home Senior Care https://ift.tt/2Gfwu8M
via IFTTT
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Connection Between Aging, Exercise, and Healthy Lungs

Enjoying a long and healthy retirement requires taking good care of yourself. While many people focus on living a heart-smart lifestyle, taking proactive steps to maintain healthy lungs is essential, too. As we age, the lungs become weaker and less flexible. This can contribute to a variety of diseases and chronic health conditions. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute , lung-related illnesses are the 3rd leading cause of death in this country. That includes lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma—adding up to nearly 235,000 deaths a year. Here are a few tips you can use to keep your lungs healthy: Stop smoking. Talk with your primary care physician about smoking cessation programs. Avoid secondhand smoke. Research shows it can be just as deadly as being a smoker. Stay away from harsh chemicals. It’s important to avoid breathing in damaging fumes (e.g., home cleaners and weed killers). Prevent infections. Many infections can lead to ...
Post a Comment
Read more

How You Can Join the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

World Alzheimer’s Month in September is an opportunity to raise awareness about this complex disease and to challenge the stigmas surrounding dementia. Launched in 2012, the awareness month spotlights the fact that 2 out of every 3 people globally believe there is little understanding of dementia in their countries. More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and it is the 6 th leading cause of death in the US, according to the Alzheimer’s Association’s annual report. With the senior population growing quickly, Alzheimer’s and dementia cases will continue to increase as well, unless researchers can find a cure. This upcoming Monday, Sept. 21, is World Alzheimer’s Day, a call to action for all of us to educate ourselves on how to take preventative steps, identify symptoms and support loved ones who have been diagnosed. Read more below to learn how to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease. Know the Warning Signs Detecting Alzheimer’s disea...
Post a Comment
Read more

Film Screening at Samvedna Senior Care

On 30th September, 2019, Samvedna Senior Care Foundation hosted the 2nd film festival of generations in association with Heidelberg University, Germany. The film Sputnik Moment – 30 years and beyond was screened at our senior citizen centre in Gurgaon for our members and staff. The film highlighted how senior citizens in Germany and the US were taking up second careers to fill their time, engage meaningfully and also get support through additional income. Post the screening Dr. Martin Gieselmann, Executive Secretary, SAI, Heidelberg University and Dr. Constanze, Coordinator DAAD Project, Heidelberg University along with our team engaged with the audience in an interesting discussion on the Indian scenario. Members shared that in India it is not easy for senior citizens to pick up jobs after retirement, however it was interesting to see that many in the audience did have jobs post retirement. They also spoke about stereotypes and social attitudes towards ageing and shared their per...
Post a Comment
Read more