*Sick Lungs Don't Show*
I may not look sick; BUT.....I have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(COPD). What is COPD? It includes such illnesses as emphysema, chronic
bronchitis and sometimes asthma. It is primarily characterized by extreme
shortness of breath.
LIVING WITH COPD IS VERY RESTRICTIVE
It means having to avoid strong odors, smoke, flowers, perfumes, cleaning
agents, paints, solvents, vehicle exhaust, shaving lotion, bath powders,
incense. I also have to avoid extremes or wind, crowds, molds and dusty
places because they make me short of breath.
PHYSICALLY
Living with COPD can mean having difficulty walking up stairs or inclines,
not walking very far, being unable to "rush" or "being rushed" tiring
easily - especially if things last too long, being unable to tolerate tight
clothing and the inability to talk for any length of time.
SOCIALLY
Living with COPD can mean coughing in public which attracts attention and
embarrasses me, having to use or wear devices or equipment, or take
medication which invites public comment (oxygen, cold weather masks,
inhalers) being concerned, often excessively) about contact with cold or
flu germs, and having my friends make short, pleasant visits.
EMOTIONALLY
Living with COPD can mean crying easily, angering easily, becoming
frustrated and impatient because I can't do the things I use to do.
Feeling resentful when others tell me "You don't look sick." It can cause
me to be panicky and tense, and becoming dependent because it's frightening
when I can't breathe.
COPD AFFECTS MY FAMILY TOO
By having to adapt to my physical, emotional, social and environmental
needs and limitations, often having to leave social functions earlier than
they wish because of me or sometimes never getting there and by having to
check out all the details in advance, getting places early and all the
while having to remain calm and reassuring at all times on my account.
REMEMBER: I may not look sick but SICK LUNGS DON'T SHOW!
