SICK LUNGS DON'T SHOW

Dear Respiratory Friends we are publishing today Edna Fiore text about COPD, she is very good advocate for COPD!

Sick Lungs Don't Show I may not look sick, BUT…...I have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) What is COPD? It includes such illnesses as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and sometimes asthma. It is primarily characterized by extreme shortness of breath. 

LIVING WITH COPD IS VERY RESTRICTIVE: It means having to avoid strong odors, smoke, flowers, perfumes, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, vehicle exhaust, shaving lotion, bath powders, and incense. I also have to avoid temperature extremes or wind, crowds, molds, and dusty places because they make me short of breath. 

PHYSICALLY: Living with COPD can mean having difficulty walking up stairs or inclines, not walking very far, being unable to rush or "being rushed" tiring easily--especially if things last too long, being unable to tolerate tight clothing and the inability to talk for any length of time. 

SOCIALLY: Living with COPD can mean coughing in public which attracts attention and embarrasses me, having to use or wear devices or equipment, or take medication which invites public comment (oxygen, cold weather masks, inhalers), being concerned (often excessively) about contact with cold or flu germs, and having my friends make short, pleasant, smokeless visits. EMOTIONALLY: Living with COPD can mean crying easily, angering easily, becoming frustrated and impatient because I can't do the things I used to do. Feeling resentful when others tell me, "You don't look sick." It can cause me to be panicky and tense, and becoming dependent and demanding because it's frightening when I can't breathe. 

COPD AFFECTS MY FAMILY. By having to adapt to my physical, emotional, social and environmental needs and limitations, often having to leave social functions earlier than they wish because of me or sometimes never getting there and by having to check out all of the details in advance, getting places early and all the while having to remain calm and reassuring at all times on my account REMEMBER: I may not look sick but-- SICK LUNGS DON'T SHOW!!!