Discussions
Discussions
General Discussion
Preparation of cold and flu toolboxes are strongly recommended. You do not want to sick and realize that you are out of the basic supplies. Going to the drug store when you are sick and fatigued is not good for you nor the other people in the store.
The following items should be in your Cold/Flu Toolbox:
Boxes of non fragrant tissues
Tylenol or Motrin fevers and body aches
A functional thermometer
Throat lozenges
Vitamin C to boost your immune system
Vitamin D
Over the counter cold medicines ( if approved by your doctor).
Ginger ale, soothing teas, and your favorite sick role comfort foods.
I hope that you do not need to use this toolbox frequently this year but it is always best to be prepared.
Good news! The max out of pocket limit has been reduced to $2, 000. The link below answered frequently asked questions about the updates in the Part D plan: https://www.medicarefaq.com/original-medicare/medicare-parts/medicare-part-d/medicare-part-d-plans-2025/
Hi Katie!
We're having a webinar on Thursday at 1:30 PM EST that will cover the changes in part D coverage in 2025. Here is the restistration link: https://copdf.co/medicareenrollment
The link below is a lengthy review of Medicare Advantage plans vs. the traditional Medicare plans: https://www.medicare.gov/publications/12026-Understanding-Medicare-Advantage-Plans.pdf
Medicare Part B covers two types of services. The link below reviews the details of what is covered by Medicare Part B: https://www.medicare.gov/providers-services/original-medicare/part-b
Pulse oximeters are a small piece of plastic equipment that you place on your finger to check your oxygen levels. They are a noninvasive, reasonably priced and easy to use tool to use. The article below reviews the top rated pulse oximeters with the price points.https://fortune.com/recommends/health/best-pulse-oximeters/
Knowledge is power. Understanding how the lab works can lessen some frustrations on the BNTM journey. The you tube video reviews the basics of labs used for BNTM individuals: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gLieUFmA0q0
- Most people are not familiar with this term. Individuals with chronic conditions may be covered by insurance plans for these services.The link below reviews the services offered and th program in detail.https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22850-palliative-care
Definition Caregiver or Support person
A caregiver or support person can be defined as someone who helps with activities of daily living, picks up groceries, helps clean, provides transportation, accompanies you to the doctor and/ provides emotional support. This could be a child over the age of 18, sibling, friend or spouse.
Every wonder how your caregiver or support person can assist with research?
Are you a caregiver for a family member with bronchiectasis? Be part of the BURDEN initiative by Insmed Incorporated.
Help the initiative to understand the everyday impact of Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis (NCFBE). They are looking for adults living with bronchiectasis (without cystic fibrosis), also known as NCFBE, and their caregivers to participate in interviews. Your experiences may potentially drive change, help inform care, and increase awareness of this under-researched condition. Participants will be compensated for their time. Register now to share your perspective and contribute to creating awareness about bronchiectasis.
The article below lists 71 different coping strategies to deal with stress and anxiety. https://www.happierhuman.com/coping-skills/
Acceptance and Commitment therapy assist individuals to accept where they are on their health journey. Once acceptance is achieved, one can become more committed to take action steps to go forward in their lives to take action steps. The goal is to strive to live the best quality of life possible under the circumstances. The article below describes this therapy in detail: https://www.verywellmind.com/acceptance-commitment-therapy-gad-1393175
The link below reviews the different types of counselors, and questions to ask the counselor before you make an appointment. Finding and Working with a Therapist – Healing Works Foundation
The infographic below reviews some basic information on Tele health: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/documents/BasicsofTelehealth_03-07-24.pdf
If not, below is information on preparing for power outages , including many links on the latest research on power outages: https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Power-Outage-Make-an-Emergency-Plan-and-Prepare-Your-Home
Below is a list of 7 different apps you may be interested in placing on your iPhone: https://www.wired.com/story/best-emergency-apps/
The link below, from Cleveland Clinic includes step by step directions on performing huff coughs:Huff Cough: Huffing, Maneuver, Purpose & How To (clevelandclinic.org)
The video below reviews the splinting technique: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5EP3Qdnp8u4
Non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria (NTM) symptoms include persistent cough with mucus, shortness of breath, tiredness, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and coughing up blood. NTM lung disease is difficult to diagnose. Many people have it but do not know it. It can take years to be diagnosed because the symptoms are similar to other lung conditions, like COPD. The likelihood of developing NTM is 16 times higher for individuals with COPD1. NTM are germs found in water and soil all over the world1. Sometimes, they can make a home in your lungs, causing symptoms to be mild to severe. We can be exposed to these germs daily through gardening, showering, and hot tubs2. Some people are infected, and some are not.
If you are at risk or have ongoing symptoms talk with your health care provider about a sputum (mucus) test. A sputum test is used to identify bacteria, fungi, and other germs3. NTM management and treatment can be hard. You may need to visit your health care provider more often. You may also need to take antibiotics (medications that fight the infection). People with NTM lung disease often cough up a lot of mucus. There are things that can help you, like airway clearance devices. These are tools used to help move mucus up and out of the lungs)2. Learn about coping with mucus, airway clearance techniques, and access the NTM lung Disease Management tool at Bronchiectasis and NTM 360. The Disease Management Tool tracks symptoms, explains common treatment options, and can help you understand when to seek further help from your health care provider.
To help spread awareness, Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 celebrated World NTM Day on August 4. World NTM Day focuses on education, early detection, and research. Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 released a new podcast channel to help support those affected by bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. Here, you will learn where NTM can hide and what you can do to avoid infection. Visit any major podcast platform to listen to Facing the Summer Heat with NTM Lung Disease with Dr. Aksamit. Speaking with Dr. Aksamit was such a treat as he is a leader in bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease and provides valuable education, treatment, and research all around the world. Follow the podcast as we connect with leading health experts, advocates, and from those affected by this lung disease. For more information visit bronchiectasis and NTM 360.
Do you think you could have NTM or do you know someone who does? Share your story and connect with others on our social media platform.
- Who is at risk for NTM lung disease? AboutNTM. Accessed July 26, 2024. https://www.aboutntm.com/who-is-at-risk/#:~:text=NTM%20lung%20disease.-,COPD,to%20get%20NTM%20lung%20disease.
- Association AL. Diagnosing and treating NTM pulmonary disease. Diagnosing and Treating NTM Pulmonary Disease | American Lung Association. Accessed July 26, 2024. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/nontuberculous-mycobacteria/diagnosing-and-treating-ntm.
- 1. Sputum culture: Medlineplus medical test. MedlinePlus. Accessed July 31, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/sputum-culture/.
I’m looking for help with inclined sleeping which I find uncomfortable for my neck and back. I sleep on my left side mostly & sometimes on my back. I’m looking at the MedCline product which is pricey but looks ergonomically good. I have a standard wedge pillow but it is hit and miss with causing joint pain. thanks! Chri
Short-acting Anticholinergics: These meds work by reducing the bronchoconstriction in your lungs, helping you to breathe easier and feel less short of breath. They work quickly to help relieve your resymptoms. They last for 4-6 hours and are usually taken once or twice a day by inhaler or nebulizer.
A common short-acting anticholinergic is:
- Atrovent® (Ipratropium Bromide)- inhaler and nebulizer
Systemic Corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation in your lungs. They are often used for a few days during an exacerbation. Your health care provider will determine the dosage and duration of your systemic corticosteroid treatment . Be sure to carefully follow your health care provider's directions for the use of these medications.
A few common systemic corticosteroids include:
- Prednisone
- Medrol Dose Pack® (Methylprednisolone)
Inhaled Corticosteroids: These medications reduce the inflammation in your lungs via an inhaler or nebulizer . These meds do not work instantly and can take a few weeks of continuous use before you experience results.
A few common inhaled corticosteroids include:
- Arunity Ellipta® (Fluticasone Furoate)
- Flovent® (Fluticasone Furoate)- inhaler
Long-acting Bronchodilators: these medications are inhaled into the lungs through inhalers and nebulizers and relax the muscles in your lungs. Long-acting bronchodilators do not work quickly. They are often used once or twice a day every day to help reduce the frequency and severity of your respiratory symptoms.
A fe common long-acting bronchodilators include:
- Perforomist® (Formoterol Fumarate)- nebulizer
- Serevent® (Salmeterol)- inhaler
- Striverdi Respimat® (Olodaterol)- inhaler
Hi, has anyone else on here had silicone implant ruptures causing lung damage? If so how and what has helped ? TIA
It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.
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