4. Discuss your destination
Tell your doctor where you're going, advises Dr. Carlin.
That's key if you're going to a high-altitude place, such as Denver, Rapid City, S.D., or Las Vegas, because high altitude can trigger shortness of breath, or hypoxemia (low blood oxygen), he says.
The air is thinner and oxygen concentrations are lower at high altitudes, and even COPD patients who don't use compressors at home may need supplemental oxygen supply in those cities, Dr. Carlin says.
"People think of it when flying, but may not think it's as significant when they go to a higher altitude," Dr. Carlin says. "Then, suddenly you're sleepy and your blood oxygen levels are out of whack."
At high altitudes, exercise a little lighter than normal or use supplemental oxygen when you exercise, says Dr. Carlin.
5. Prepare for weather
Check weather reports and avoid smoggy regions or seasons, which are particularly a problem in places like Los Angeles, Pittsburgh and Phoenix.
"Smog is irritating to people with COPD, so maybe you shouldn't go to those areas in summer," Dr. Edelman says.
On car trips, use air conditioning and keep windows closed, especially in smoggy conditions and traffic jams, where exhaust can cause lung irritation, Dr. Carlin suggests.
Source: http://ift.tt/1smoGjO
Put the internet to work for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please, don't spam! Send only useful and thematic comments. Thanks!