More Changes Appear

Have you noticed as time goes by we notice more changes? I have already written about how my sleep pattern has changed. I also have noticed my eating pattern has changed a lot too. I've always been small built but as my COPD progresses, I lose weight quickly.

Food and smell

Preferences

I've always been able to eat anything and not put on weight. I know I burn calories through my anxiety and the way I breathe (due to COPD). I love all food except spicy food like curry and chili. My body says no to them. I have also grown to dislike citruses like oranges, lemons, and limes. They're definitely a no-no for me and I have also banned the hubby from them.

Sense of smell

I'm not sure if I now dislike citruses because of my COPD or if my sense of smell improved because I no longer smoke. The thought that it could be enhanced due to quitting the cigarettes makes me smile. I was such a heavy smoker and learned many lessons in giving them up.

Difficulty swallowing

I've noticed that I'm struggling to eat certain foods. Not that I don't like them but it can be difficult to swallow them. Bread and butter and chips have been tough lately. I do love a chip - it may not sound healthy to some, but a treat here and there is definitely in the cards for me. I think it's sort of stodgy food I struggle with. Comfort food has been more appetizing. I can eat some cakes but they can't be spongey. Bread is difficult to swallow even if I try dunking it in soup.

Portion sizes and adjustments

My portion size has also gone down. I would rather get up and add some more than have it all piled up on my plate. I can eat fruit and yogurts but not cheesecake. All these changes seem to be creeping into my life. My eyes and smell say yes but the changes have made the rest of my body say a massive NO and that's where we are. I no longer use milk but do use a substitute like rice milk. Now and again I will slip and have a latte as a very nice treat. Because of the changes, it makes it difficult to eat what I cook for my husband. I miss the days of cheese and pickle sandwiches, mostly because of the bread.

Not all doom and gloom

I will say it's not all doom and gloom. These problems gradually sneak in so I know what to expect and can be on the lookout for substitutes. Sweets are no problem unless they have chocolate. Those are high in calories and I burn them up too quickly - a problem that has been in my life as far as I can remember. The changes that come along with COPD are not just in the lungs, as many of us know. It is important to educate people to expect to make changes in their lives after being diagnosed.

Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Debz passed away in October of 2021. She is deeply missed but her positivity and resilience live on through her articles. Thank you for everything, Debz.