Almost tragic surprise in well-managed COPD/Emphysema
I haven't popped in for a while, but this last Wed was a good reason to.
There are so many things that we just don't know until it happens & I believe that the lack of available information on COPD/Emphysema contributes to fatal or near fatal mistakes.
I was getting ready for work (yes, work) Wednesday & was doing a pre-getting dressed puff on my inhaler with spacer & aspirated an object into my lungs.
I began to choke.
My family was out, I was alone & covered in tears, snot & drool.
I had to be at work in 45 minutes & couldn't breathe.
I was actually afraid it was a bug because my spacer was uncapped...
Long story shorter, I slapped on my oxygen, then used the huff cough method to attempt to clear my airway while sitting & leaning into my hands clenched into a big fist.
Over the trash can.
On the toilet.
I didn't see anything come out, but I slowly regained my breath, cleaned myself up & got ready for work.
I have since come to the conclusion that it wasn't a bug-but rather a crumb of food that had dislodged from my teeth.
I have a denture & partial that have a tendency to trap food particles.
Lesson:
ALWAYS rinse mouth after eating.
That way my mouth is clear before using my inhaler OR my ventilator at night.
What if I had been using it in a rescue scenario?
We already have a esophogus that likes to redirect food & lungs that don't wanna breathe out.
I have choked on food (rice) twice before & have become more cautious as a result.
What is a little thing due to COPD that has made you more cautious about "simple" daily things?
Oh, and cap that spacer...
Thank goodness you are okay. That must have been a scary expereince. Sending lots of gentle hugs your way. - Lori (Team Member)
Cap the spacer.... too funny, but sound advice. the fact that you still can work is amazing, thank God that is the case, when far too many of us with these symptoms can not. I also worked the first year after my initial collapse. I spent 3 days in ICU and 7 more in general observation. My doctor, surgeon, VA doc, and pulmonary team told me not to, as I was lucky to simply be alive and able to walk unassisted. I fought it hard, as I had the COOLEST job on the planet, and wanted to work it. All good things must come to an end it seems. Best wishes, stay at it, and a fine piece of advice for those sneaky inhaler folks.
SO glad you're okay,
! Aspiration is such a terrible feeling, especially when you're alone. Goodness. How are you doing now? Keep an eye out for any changes and you may want to let your doctor know about this, just in case. Thanks for coming back to share this experience ... I think most people have been there, with something "going down the wrong pipe" ... a reminder to be cautious is never a bad thing! Be well. -Melissa, team member I am well, thank you. Rice, crumbly things, all need caution from me.
I'm trying to eat more slowly & rinsing my teefs after eating!
