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pseudomonas pneumonia causing shortness of breath and difficulty wearing face masks.
Am undergoing IV Cefepime treatment with prednisone for pseudomonas pneumonia along with Amikacin nebulizer treatments (28 days on/ 28 days off). Having episodes of dyspnea from walking/talking making it almost impossible to my wear face mask. My nurse friend is telling me it is in my head but prior to this exacerbation I double-masked without difficulty whenever i was in public. Any opinions on how to respond other than avoiding her.
Replies
Only you know how your body feels. She may be a nurse, but if she has not walked in your NTM shoes- she may not fully understand. Have you contacted your doctor if the increase in dyspnea is new
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
Hello Tricia. I would try to tell her firmly that your breathing issues are not static, at times it is more difficult. If she continues to lack empathy, then try avoiding. I have the same problem. I can do fine with an N95 mask some days then other days I struggle to breathe even with a lighter mask. It is a real thing!
I’d be tempted to say, “want to trade places “ , but I wouldn’t . I might tell her that you feel she is minimizing your situation and that it upsets you.
NTM is so rare that most professionals have no experience with it. I agree with Katie, you need to do what works for you.
I would encourage you to also look at the masks you are using. Depending on which N95 mask you are using, some do not have good breathability so it'll compound your problems. Please check the Mask Nerd YouTube videos -- there are masks from Hong Kong manufacturers which are ultra-breathable AND provide excellent filtration. At least you will have options to wear on the days you are struggling.
Rose,
Thank you again for this information- more important at this point in time than a few months ago. Stay safe and well
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