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A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭

I ended up here while looking for a support group for family members of people with COPD. My family member doesn't communicate their symptoms or feelings very well, so I'm trying to understand what they are going through, and how best to help.

October 1, 2022
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A MyCOPDTeam Member

Well thats a big question but in general shortness of breath low 02 makes doing things extremely hard im emphysema with tumours in my lungs each has there own general issues but low functionality and low 02 are pretty comon comon

October 1, 2022
A MyCOPDTeam Member

The doctors, nurses, rehab, respiratory therapy can only do so much to help/guide us...we have to take responsibility for ourselves n our care to continue to improve in anyway we can n meet goals we set for ourselves.....

October 2, 2022
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Hi Kim. I for one do hope you feel Welcome in this self-help Forum. I arrived here almost like you did - My spouse signed up first to get a sense of what this Monster condition was all about. There are many helpful resources here and friendly people but do know that this condition does NOT affect us all the same. Now she has moved on to dealing with other LIFE things, but knows enough to sit in on an Exam and ask questions to assist in my care.
SO now all the heavy lifting is on Me. I encourage you to guide your relative with the same priorities in mind.
What you should know is that our medicines can only help get us to a point of stability - as in preventing poor health which could lead to a lung infection or hospital stay. Those events are the most detrimental to our care in the long run. There is no "cure" - yet.
What this means for you is that many tasks and chores will shift to others in spite of pride or previous obligations. Things like laundry, shopping and lawn care can NOT be accomplished with reduced breathing and energy. Chemicals, smells, weather, intense activity are all triggers for a breathing episode to kick in. Shortness of breath is Real scary.
Over time your relative can participate to a smaller degree and still feel valued. It is very important that they also participate in getting the right information to help you both based on how this condition affects you both going forward. No offense intended, but Hopefully this share will help in a Realistic way. Be well.

October 1, 2022 (edited)
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I've answered your question but not sure it got posted?could you please let me know n if it didn't get posted I'll gladly answer again....thanks

October 1, 2022

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