There has been a lot of media in the last few weeks that would make even the strongest person feel worried. But to keep it simple here are a few tips I will be sharing with my regulars that I thought would be useful for pulmonary/respiratory/cardiac/anyone with breathing problems, breathlessness, or shortness of breath difficulties:
- Know your triggers – awareness of what sets off your breathlessness is pivotal in forming a management plan. Knowing your own symptoms and having your COPD/Asthma management plan in place is a starting point. https://lungfoundation.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Information-paper-COPD-Action-Plan-Kit-Feb2019.pdf or https://asthma.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/341-NAC-Written-Asthma-Action-Plan-2015_Colour.pdf
- Make sure your scripts are up to date and you have a supply of medication with your spacer with you ready when needed.
- Know your inhaler technique – if you need to check then go to the Lung Foundation website to view videos on how to be effective in using your devices or ask your allied health professional. https://lungfoundation.com.au/resources/?search=technique
- Hand Hygiene – important in reducing the risk of infection. Check out this Department of Health publication on how to wash your hands. It should take you 15-20 seconds to complete the task of hand washing, try singing a song with your children to help them stay at the basin longer. https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/A1CCE88EB168930CCA257E35007F6927/$File/wash_dry_hands.pdf
- Cough Etiquette is equally important – coughing into your hand and then spreading the infection through touch can simply be avoided by following precautions such as using a tissue or coughing into your sleeve. Check out this poster at https://www.nqphn.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/00883-Cough-etiquette-poster-A3.pdf
Spend the time making new healthy habits, lowering your risk and improving your self management. Remember to keep a look out for Part 2 of this article..