Meals out
I used to love a family meal out, we'd all get together on a regular basis and enjoy each others company but I've noticed since my breathing got worse after eating that family get together are few and far between. I know it's because they don't want to see me so breathless but I really do miss them. I've tried talking to my children but they say it's because they're busy etc. 😔
NannaToEight,
I have not had the exact same problem as you, but something similar. None of my family or friends have get togethers to eat out together anymore. Mostly because the cost of meals in a restaurant have gotten way too much. My problem is having a flare up or being sick whenever family get togethers happen. I missed the last 3 Thanksgivings because of being sick. Last year it was covid, the year before it was a major flare up, and before that it was pneumonia. Other factors for get togethers are my allergies to pet hair and dander (they all have dogs), and outside weather. So, my family gets together when they want and if I cannot make it, they understand. A lot of times I will go and leave early. Another problem I have is a Hiatal Hernia. My diet is restricted because of it, so I cannot always eat what the family is having. Just last Sunday my wife and I were invited to dinner at my nephew's house with my daughter and grandsons being there also. Problem for me was the food. My nephew's wife made lasagna. They do not have much knowledge about my stomach issues. Unfortunately for me, I cannot eat it. So, I stayed home. My daughters know what I can and cannot eat, so they always make something extra I can eat so I can attend. Plus, my youngest daughter and grandkids live a block away, so I can see them anytime I want. Having COPD definitely changes your life and priorities. But it is just something we have to deal with and do the best we can. For me, my immediate family understands, and they do everything they can to accommodate me for get togethers. Sometimes the menu doesn't work, but it is not a reason to stay away. I hope you can work it out with your family so you can see them more often. Family support is very helpful mentally. Have you spoken to your medical team about this shortness of breath after meals? You should discuss this with them. They should be able to help. Take care and God Bless!
hello.
Hiatal hernias. I can relate. Anything tomato, spicy, etc. are absolutely "no". I also have allergies to eggs, nuts, some spices and more. Over time, I have learned to bring my own meal, often a sandwich. I'm a sweet eater, chocolate is the best and the worst for hiatal hernias. Everyone gets dessert, how about the rest of us!
How wonderful that your daughter brings something special for you to eat and they they accommodate you. My daughter always brings apple crisp, I like to take "safe" cookies or cake too. Jell-O and pudding are hits. Plus, I am able to participate, instead of observing side glances from people, who are uncomfortable eating in front of me. No matter how often we tell them that they are okay. I was brought up that we don't eat in front of others, plus it feels good to share.
If my husband or a daughter are there, they make sure that I have a ride to go someplace with a safe atmosphere if needed. One that won't trigger anything in me. If someone is heavily scented, my husband will take me away. Those scents linger in the house. He will tell people we will meet someplace different because the scents that they are wearing aren't safe, in our house.
Dogs, I have 3, are supposedly the allergy-free breeds. I don't think that there is a dog that's 100% safe. We keep them clean and bathed. With the "shedding" breeds, I ask that they are brushed well and to use an unscented shampoo. Even if I go to their house. Some dogs are musky, I really struggle with them.
Thank you for sharing to NannaToEight. You posted some information that I will try.
Have a breathe-easy day/night.
Janet (site moderator/COPD.net)
I hear you. I think that we have shared similar information.
Sadly that happens so often. I finally told everyone how much it means to me asked, included. If I can make it, I would be so grateful. If not, I know that I was included and they understood.
Here is an article that I wrote and shared with my family. Some wanted it via email or messenger, my mom wanted it printed out. This opened some doors and I found out that some of my family members had joined the sites that I am part of. That brought conversations. Not with everyone, but for some.
https://copd.net/living/letter-to-my-family
COPD can be a lonely disease. It's important too, to have a safe place to visit, where you can share and visit with others. Often during the holidays there are people here. They might be sad, lonely, even joyous, looking for others to chat with. Often reaching out to others helps them as well.
I look forward to chatting with you again. Remember, you aren't alone and often someone really does similarly understand, and really does care.
Janet (site moderator/COPD.net)
