Tips for Staying Well and Avoiding Hospitals

Recently, I had the privilege of caring for someone with severe COPD. As we spent time together, I got to know her as both a patient and a person with hopes, fears, and a zest for life. Once she started feeling better, she confided in me about her deep anxiety over going home. She worried about another flare-up and the prospect of returning to the hospital.

One day, she looked at me and asked, "John, can you give me some tips on how to stay feeling good and avoid hospitals?" Her question made me realize the importance of providing practical, everyday advice that can help people with COPD maintain their health and minimize the risk of hospital readmission. Here are some of the key strategies I shared with her.

Strategies for COPD management

Create a support system

I remarked, "Your husband seems to really care about you. I can see that by the amount of time he spends here. But is he supportive in other ways? Does he help you?" She responded that he does the best he can.

For example, he helps her put on her BiPAP at night before he goes to work. He also picks up her prescriptions from the pharmacy and assists with cooking and cleaning. However, he has to work a lot of night shifts.

"Is that what you mean by support system?"

"Yes," I said. "That is support."

Find a supportive COPD doctor

"You already have a good COPD doctor. I understand you've been consulting with a pulmonologist," I said, noticing her nod in agreement. "A pulmonologist is excellent for ensuring your lungs are well cared for. They can help you identify the best medications for your condition and tailor your treatment to your specific needs.

They can also explore other treatment options, like Zephyr valves or even lung transplantation, to help improve your quality of life. Additionally, they can answer any questions you have about your disease and alleviate any concerns you might have."

Take your medicine as planned

In the hospital, we administer strong medicines to help you breathe better. As you improve, you are gradually weaned off these drugs, aided by breathing treatments and scheduled inhalers.

It's crucial to continue taking these medicines every day exactly as prescribed, even when you're feeling good – especially when you're feeling good. This consistency helps keep your lungs open and makes breathing easier. By sticking to your medication plan, you can slow the progression of your disease, prevent flare-ups, and enhance your quality of life.

Wear your BiPAP and oxygen as prescribed

Upon arrival, my patient exhibited very high CO₂ levels, prompting us to introduce her to a BiPAP machine. This device facilitated effective breathing during sleep, which helped reduce her CO₂ levels.

At first, she found the BiPAP uncomfortable. But her eagerness to understand its benefits motivated her to persevere. Notably, the BiPAP also ensured her oxygen levels remained within a healthy range during sleep.

As she grasped the mechanism behind its efficacy, her commitment to wearing it as prescribed grew despite initial discomfort. With each passing night, she noted an improvement in tolerance, indicating a positive adaptation to the treatment.

Although she doesn't need to wear it during the daytime now that she is feeling better, it is highly recommended that she continues to use it while sleeping to keep her CO₂ and oxygen levels safe. Following this prescription can greatly improve how she feels during the day. The same principle applies to oxygen therapy: it should only be used as prescribed.

Try to make sure sick people stay away from you

One of the factors we identified as causing her recent flare-up and hospital admission was the flu. I explained the importance of her talking to friends and family members, advising them to stay away when they are sick. This is an important part of the support system we talked about earlier.

She responded, "Yes, I have already done that. And, now that it's summer, I plan to meet them outside where there is good ventilation."

"Great idea," I said. "If you do need to go out where there are crowds, consider wearing a mask. These precautions can help prevent you from catching viruses and reduce the risk of future flare-ups."

The power of an open mind

As we wrap up, remember to keep learning and stay open-minded. Be willing to try new things and explore new ideas. Embracing a mindset of continual growth and discovery can lead to enriching experiences and personal growth. Keep moving forward with curiosity and enthusiasm!

My patient and now friend concluded our discussion with this comment. "I like your ideas. I think they will help me out a lot. I very much appreciate your time and help. I hope the next time I see you, it will be outside this place."