FLASS begins today’s blog with a sincere wish for your good health, peace and prosperity in the New Year.
We hope you have a happy-but safe-celebration as we accelerate toward 2015.
One of the highlights of the Holiday Season is often simply taking a holiday trip to see sights or visit family and friends. Although a normal person might actually feel challenged by the rigors of traveling, a person with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) might feel overwhelmed by the whole ordeal. In fact, it might be a strain for the COPD patient instead of a pleasure.
The American Lung Association states, “COPD makes it difficult to breathe, causing many people with this condition to be reluctant to travel far from home. But with proper preparation, you can travel anywhere, safely—even if you have COPD.”
As with many lung diseases, a patient must avoid allergens and be ready for changes in air temperature and quality. (There’s an Ap for that, named State of the Air! It reports about air purity, based on zip code! Get it for your smart phone! )
Based on recommendations from the American Lung Association, you will find our four basic steps for how to enjoy your holiday travel in spite of COPD, below.
The FLASS Four Step Program For Your Journey:
1. Medications: Make certain that you pack an ample supply of your COPD medications.
On your check list, do not forget your metered-dose inhalers and your spacer.
2. Water: Remember to take enough water “to take your medication and to avoid the stress of looking for some when you need it.”
You know that air in airplanes, hotels, restaurants buses, terminals, etc. can be dry. Solve this problem by making sure you have enough water with you to and prevent your airways from getting dehydrated and irritated.
3. Oxygen: With COPD, portable oxygen tanks are often required. Without good planning, this could be a source of stress and difficulty. Naturally, the Florida Lung, Asthma and Sleep Center Specialists suggest that you take an adequate supply of oxygen.
Take a cue from the Boy Scouts, and “be prepared.” Get back-up. If equipment malfunctions, life will be much easier if you have packed spare equipment.
4. Research: Search the net, and learn in advance where the nearest oxygen suppliers along your route are located. Additionally, there are some oxygen suppliers who deliver their supplies at many destinations along major routes.
So, our advice is for you to be sure you have a list “of names and locations of an oxygen supplier, a respiratory doctor and a hospital at your stopping points and at your destination.”
The American Lung Association has more detailed information specific to various types of travel, at this informative online resource. Find out the different strategies involved in traveling by car, plane or cruise ship. Plus, if you are not traveling, you still might be facing stress over the holidays. Find out how to cope with the holidays in spite of COPD at this reader-friendly source.
Happy Holidays From the Florida Lung, Asthma and Sleep Specialists!
Once again, we at FLASS hope this coming Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza and New Year’s celebrations will
bring you merry memories and a good start for 2015.
We have only one small New Year’s resolution to suggest for your health and well being: Breathe deeper!
