COPD/Emphysema Diagnosis: What is next?
Hello everyone! I just have a couple of questions. My 75-year-old father went to the hospital this weekend after being significantly short of breath and subsequently falling. His o2 levels dipped down to 71/70, and I called for an ambulance. When they arrived, his o2 levels were back up to the early/mid 90s which is normal for him. He's had o2 levels in the mid-90s for awhile now and I wanted him to get checked out but he never wanted to go see a doctor. He's still in the hospital and the diagnosis is emphysema. His o2 levels are normally 92 to 95 even now, and he no longer needs supplemental oxygen. I'm going to get him to see a doctor as soon as he is out of the hospital so we can formulate a plan for him, but I'm just wondering how else to proceed next? I have not had a chance to talk to the hospital doctor and the nurses offer only limited information.
He was in the bathroom and walking over to his bed which was a short walk when he fell. He's already got a wheelchair but doesn't use it that often and I don't want him to be bed-ridden. Any advice or tips? Thanks in advance!
Good morning
Welcome to our COPD community. And you have come to the right place for tips on how to manage COPD. First off, I see you posted 17 hours ago. How are you and your dad doing today?
Thanks for reaching out. It sounds like a scary situation with your dad's fall and low oxygen levels. An oxygen level in the 70s is pretty concerning, so good thing he had you to call for help. I'm glad he's in the hospital getting checked out, and that he is able to maintain a good saturation without being on oxygen. 90% or better is considered acceptable -- as I'm sure you know (https://copd.net/clinical/interpreting-oxygen-levels). Another thing that may be helpful is to have him work with a physical therapist, if he hasn't done that already. Physical therapy can make sure he learns how (and has all the right equipment) to prevent falls. Pulmonary rehab may be another option. This can help him learn more about his COPD and how best to manage it on a daily basis. What do you think? John. community moderator.
