End stage of COPD
How long does the end stage typically last? My husband was diagnosed as critical stage over 5 yrs. ago. He's been on on oxygen 24/7 for a couple years. He has had all the end stage symptoms.
Hi
. I wish I had answers for you, but the reality is that every journey is different. We've had members in this community who have live for decades with a stage 4 diagnosis. Does he have any comorbities? Is he able to get around and enjoy life even if his abilities are limited? How are you doing? Are you taking care of yourself? Being caretaker to someone who is at stage 4 can be stressful. You need to accept help whenever you can get it and take some time for yourself now and then. Here is an article about late-stage COPD that might interest you: https://copd.net/living/understanding-end-stage. Please know we are here for both you and your husband. Hugs. - Lori (Team Member)
Hi Lori:
Thank you for your kind reply. Yes, my husband had open heart surgery in 2016 resulting in 5 by passes. He takes Clonodine and Losartin for hypertension. His ankles and feet remain swollen even though he takes Flurosimede for edema. No, he does not enjoy life just an occasional ride in my car. He totaled his car in September. He's agitated and depressed. Takes Seroquil for that. Uses a nebulizer twice a day now. Life has been hard for both of us. I no longer leave him alone and miss my independence. Actually, this all started 9 yrs. ago after the open heart surgery. Thanks for listening. I don't usually vent.Hi
. Know that you are always welcome to vent here. We have many caretakers in this community who understand where you are coming from. Have you considered home health care or hospice? Insurance should cover both and they can give you respite now and then. I know a few hours here and there isn't much, but it might help to at least meet a friend for lunch or go for a long walk in the park, anything that helps you to reset and re-energize.
My father had late-stage MS, but his lungs were his biggest issue. He was hospitalized once or twice a year for seven years and, each time, the doctors told me to prepare for the worst. But then he would recover. When he did finally pass, I was a bit shocked. Looking back, I realize I wasted a lot of energy worrying and waiting. I should have taken better care of myself so I could take better care of him and of my own family.
No one can tell you how much longer your husband has, so it might be best to live in the present. Find ways to live your life a little more fully, even if that means recruiting another family member to stay with him for a bit or (if you can afford it), hiring someone for a few hours a week. He might even be happier if he sees that you are happy.
Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)
Thank you for your very good advice. You are very kind.
Just sending you a hug tonight. Caregivers often end up putting their needs and lives on hold for too long ... taking care of yourself is not a luxury. You need to be able to step away and take a breath sometimes, we all do. Consider respite care so that you can recharge your batteries, so to speak.
Does your husband read or watch movies? Can you play cards together? I hope that even in this very stressful season you can still find ways to connect and enjoy each other's company. I'm glad you came to the site -- it shows that you care and are clearly doing the best you can. He's lucky to have you. Hang in there and please vent to us as often as you need to! It's a big part of why we're here. -Melissa, team member
