COPD & Emphysema Support Group

Volmo, you have received some very valuable advice from these wonderful members. Don't be shocked that you know very little about COPD. Most people (that don't have it) only know what they see on the commericals on TV. It is beginning to get more attention in the labs and the researchers are working to try to find new ways to take care of COPD.

I was you before I found out that I had Emphysema. I knew that it was a terrrible thing but so is cancer and diabetes. The point I am trying to make is that once it is your problem, then it in you best interest to try to learn whatever you can.

I found that it can be a slow process but every time you have a moment that you identify that you can do something to help yourself is the beginning of that next moment and as you learn, you become less anxious and more capable in managing this disease.

You have received some of the most valuable information you will get right here in this thread.....

Because it comes from your peers and we get what you are saying. We get when you are down. We get when your day is hell because you can't talk to a doctor, or you can't get your meds or you just want to give up. We get that and there is always someone around here that will offer help.

Wishing you the very best for tonight and each day and night upcoming.

Anna

I'm really amazed at all the great posts from a simple question. I wasn't even sure if anyone else had this problem. What is NET POT?? I have really bad sinus problems Doesn't help with the breathing at all. Kind of hard to get O2 through your nose!! I'm so glad for all of these answers. Really helps me to know I'm not alone.

mjjs, Neti Pots are used to rinse the sinus cavities of pollen and to help clear the sinus. It is a saline solution and is really easy to use once you get the hang of it.

I use the Sinus bottle rinse system by NeilMed. I have seen both the pots and the bottle systems in the department where they have the sinus and cold medications at most pharmacies. If you can't find them ask one of the associates in the store.

I had no idea od the change it made and for the most part, my sinus headaches and problems are controlled now.

The link below will give you more information. Please pay close attention to the requirements for the water used. Tap water is not recommended and most of us have distilled water for our concentrators already and that is ok.

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinu...

Good lluck,
Anna

Thanks. I am using a saline nasal spray (when I remember) that I made up myself. I suppose thats the same idea. I haven't seen that it really made any difference. I also have a cortisone spray but can't see that that helps either. Thank god I don't have headaches from it. Just stuffed up.

mjjs, Nasal sprays do not work the same as a nasal rinse. I put a link below to show you how and why a rinse is better. You are removing the irritants from the sinus when you do a wash.

I no longer use cortisone sprays because I was told by a doctor that they can become habit forming in that the sinus eventually will depend on the spray to stay unstuffy. Others may have heard something different but drugs often rebound and cause exactly what you are trying to stop.

If it works for you, that is good and I wish you continued success.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOBQ...

I haven't been on here for a while, so I'm just now getting caught up on all the posts. Sorry to back track, but I want to comment on the original question of the need to urinate when SOB.

I also experience this--and its so bad that I have literally 'flooded' before I could make it to the bathroom many, many times. You know that feeling? You start--and you can't stop no matter that you have five more feet to go and jeans to unzip, etc? I hate that!

It took me a long time to figure out that the very worst thing I can do is to hurry off to the bathroom. Almost never works! I have to sit down, do pursed breathing for a few minutes and 'catch my breath' and THEN head for the bathroom. It seems counter productive, but it sure helps me. vicki

I am so glad I have found this forum you all are wonderful and such knowledge here. I thought I was the only one who had a problem with the bathroom. And don’t get constipated because you can’t breathe at all. Also with #2 you think you are taking your last breath.

I try to avoid the 'urge' if at all possible but Vicki12 uses the same method I use.

When my O2 drops (usually because I have over exerted myself), my heart speeds up & then the 'urge' is there. I STOP, PL Breathe, & try to calm my inner self. This does decrease the urge & gives me time. It may not always work IF one has postponed the first 'nature call' . Gotta 'go' to keep from going & less caffeine helps with control ! lol