Elderly Care Indian Land SC
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that causes shortness of breath which can interfere with daily activities. Emphysema usually affects elderly adults even though it begins to develop before a person notices symptoms. It is caused by damage to the lungs by smoking, exposure to manufacturing fumes, and exposure to air pollution. These things damage the lungs over time causing emphysema to present itself as a person ages. If your loved one suffers from emphysema, there are many things you can do to help them to manage the condition and have good quality of life. There is no cure for emphysema, but there are many treatments that can help your loved one to enjoy their normal activities and slow the progression of the condition.
If you are caring for an elderly loved one with emphysema, here are a few things you can do to make sure that your loved one stays happy and healthy.
- Encourage Them to Visit the Doctor Regularly
Help your loved one to not miss appointments and check ups with their doctor or specialist. In addition, don’t hesitate to make an appointment if you suspect that their symptoms are worsening or that a particularly treatment isn’t working.
- Help Them Follow Through With Treatments
Your loved one should always take their medications as directed by their doctor and follow through with other recommended treatments. For some, doctors may suggest diet and lifestyle changes which you can help them with and offer support. Be supportive and encouraging if your loved one has decided to quit smoking. Quitting smoking can be very difficult and stressful, but it is essential to slowing the progression of emphysema.
- Help Them to Exercise
Even though exercising may seem difficult, it can actually help your loved one to build lung strength. Make sure that they talk with their doctor about which exercises are safe for them to try and then help them incorporate exercise into their daily routine. The health benefits of exercise are numerous, and it will also help your loved one to have a happier mood.
- Help Them Protect Their Lungs
Avoiding anything that can irritate the lungs is key. Take care not to use household products with strong odors or even strong-smelling perfumes or fabric softeners. Change your loved one’s air filters on the furnace and air conditioner regularly. In addition, encourage them to get an annual flu shot to prevent respiratory infections.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/emphysema/basics/definition/con-20014218
