Taking Notice of Change
We're so used to our own bodies that we tend not to take notice of gradual changes. We automatically think "it's us just getting a little older and slowing down." We tend to shrug off the little coughs and shortness of breath. We tend not to be aware of the seriousness of the changes even if family members or friends may make a comment that you're not your usual self.
Different attitudes of rejection
Sometimes it's denial, the attitude of not caring, or maybe it's being too frightened. We should always get changes checked out. Better to be on the safe side and nip things in the bud so to speak. Being scared to find out if something is wrong is so common that you put things off which makes you more and more anxious. If there is a problem, it will only get worse.
Slowing down the illness
If you get a diagnosis early on, you have a better chance of getting the right medication and treatment. There is not yet a cure for COPD but we can work on slowing down the illness by changing the way we live and adapting to our body's changes. By learning more about the illness and what can trigger the flare-ups, we can then avoid those things as best we can.
The emotional side of things
Sadly, many times when you get the diagnosis of COPD, the discussion centers solely around the lungs and nothing else. Your healthcare team can miss out on the all-important emotional side of things. No talk of the good days and bad days. The days you wake up in tears and all you can do is barely get out of bed. The days you get up, have a shower, and feel you could conquer the world; but in reality, it's get up, have a shower, and clean up (if we can manage that).
Pacing and communication
We need to learn to pace ourselves and keep as active as possible at the same time. We must know our limitations. Never be afraid of asking for help, whether from your partner, family member, or friend. If you don't ask, you don't receive it. Talk about how you feel to family and friends. If you don't talk about it, people won't know or understand what's going on with you. It is difficult, but the more we open up the easier it will become.
Adjusting and moving on
Again, it's not just the lungs we struggle with, but the emotional side of it too. Learning to adjust to the new life we have involves accepting what we can and cannot do. Avoid the triggers that can send you into a flare-up (exacerbation). Don't use the scented candles you once loved. Move on from your favorite perfume or deodorant. Cleaning materials have to be changed. The little things that you were so used to using and now can't. Avoid certain places you used to go to as they too have triggers.
No planning ahead as you don't know what tomorrow brings. A new chapter and a new beginning become part of our new lives. To look ahead and not behind. To remember "you got this, COPD does NOT have you."
#thinkpositivebepositive
#thereislifeafteradiagnosis
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.
Join the conversation