COPD360social welcomes new member Jeaniene who joins 65,535 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐ŸŒค๏ธ Happy Monday, COPD360social!

We're halfway through June, and for many of us, that means warmer temperatures, higher humidity, pop-up storms, changing air quality, and plenty of unpredictable weather.

As people living with COPDโ€”or caring for someone who doesโ€”we know that weather can sometimes have a way of making itself known.

โ˜€ Heat can leave us feeling drained.
๐ŸŒง๏ธ Humidity can make breathing feel more difficult.
๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ Wind can stir up pollen, dust, and irritants.
โ›ˆ๏ธ Storms can bring sudden changes in pressure and air quality.

While we can't control the weather, we can prepare for it.

๐Ÿ’™ Keep an eye on the forecast.
๐Ÿ’™ Have your medications and inhalers nearby.
๐Ÿ’™ Stay hydrated.
๐Ÿ’™ Pace yourself on hot or humid days.
๐Ÿ’™ Listen to your body and give yourself permission to slow down when needed.

As we start a new week, let's check in with one another:

๐Ÿ“ Where are you checking in from?
๐ŸŒค๏ธ What's the weather like in your area this week?
๐Ÿซ Does heat, humidity, storms, or changing weather affect your breathing?
๐Ÿ’ก What tips have helped you manage symptoms when the weather doesn't cooperate?

Let's share what works and help each other head into the week feeling prepared and supported.

11 hours ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments12 comment(s)
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainThanks, Jean! ๐Ÿ’ฆ3 hours ago
  • brydyit was really oppressive for sure Jean. esp for over a week, 1 day was 44C its very unusual for June, generally we get a few very hot humid weeks in August but not this early. like Brandon said its looking like a very hot summer for many I think maybe due to the super el niล„o. fortunately its much better this week, & we got some much needed rain. the corn fields sure shot up after the rain so they were def thirsty! 
    agree re the spritzing idea Debbie suggested, I will have to give that a try too! 2 hours ago
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captainbrydy, we do what we can to avoid being "overheated". It's so nice to read other members tips! They are very helpful! ๐Ÿฅตโžก๐ŸงŠโžก๐Ÿ˜Š2 hours ago
Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State CaptainMonday Music you can relate to.
Frank Sinatra That's Life
https://www.sinatra.com/video/frank-sinatra-thats-life-sinatra-a-man-and-his-music-part-ii/

2 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

You're welcome, Tara! Enjoy! ๐Ÿ˜Š...

4 hours ago

Jackie Red

Jackie Red

I went to a Pulmonologist and she rated my emphysema as not very bad so my insurance wonโ€™t let me go to pulmonary rehab.  She is a Nurse Practitioner.  She ordered an Ultrasound for my heart.  Plus prescribed Trilegy over Breo 200/50.  The Trilegy is $50 approximately more expensive but it seems I am doing ok on it.  What I am wondering is do I need to see a Pulmonologist if my Emphysema isnโ€™t that bad?  I donโ€™t have a job right now and am on a lot of other medications for another issue and my husbandโ€™s insurance doesnโ€™t cover anything until we meet a $5,000 deductible.  He has worked for three furniture companies that have gone bankrupt and right now heโ€™s not making much in furniture sales.  I just wanted to see what everyone suggests.  Is it still important for me to go to a Pulmonologist even though I canโ€™t go to Pulmonary Rehab?  Thanks so much!

4 hours ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captaincommented onListening to Your Lungs: When Itโ€™s Time to Speak Up

If you have frequent flare ups (say 1-6/year) talk with your med team about treatment options. Some patients take maintenance antibiotics (azithromycin), some take daliresp, some take biologics. Itโ€™s worth having a discussion to see if any of these...

4 hours ago

Tara Shedor, COPDF Communications

Tara Shedor, COPDF Communicationscommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

Ok I have way too many avocados right now and will definitely be making this. Thanks, Debbie!!...

5 hours ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Just read all your comments OMG thanks friends.

9 hours ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article Listening to Your Lungs: When Itโ€™s Time to Speak Up

This article was written by Arnelle Konde, MPH, CHES.

Delayed care after a COPD flare-up can be dangerous. Waiting too long to address worsening symptoms is linked to more hospital visits and a higher risk of death.1,4 Early treatment, on the other hand, can improve outcomes and even shorten recovery time.1,4

Even if you have lived with COPD for years, you can miss subtle changes in how you feel. Symptoms may creep up slowly or not seem "serious enough" to mention. But even subtle changes may be a sign that your condition may be unstable. Speaking up early can help protect your lung function, independence, and quality of life.

When Changes May Mean Something More

It is normal to have good days and bad days with COPD. But if something feels off or different from your usual pattern, it's worth paying attention.

9 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿฅ‘EASY AVOCADO LIME CREMA๐Ÿ‹โ€๐ŸŸฉ1 large ripe avocado, peeled and pitted 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt Juice of 1 lime1/4 cup fresh cilantro 1 to 2 tbsp. water, as neededPlace ingredients in a blender, blending until smooth, and adding 1 tbsp. water...

13 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Monday, everyone! 
A great big Hello to all of our members, and a great big Welcome to our newest members! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ
Wishing all of you a positively awesome day! ๐Ÿคฉ

18 hours ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainanswered the question Constrictive clothing

While I was in the process of finding more comfortable clothing, I also switched to pull-on slacks instead of zippered. I still have both, but for travel, pull-on slacks are just so easy, especially if there is no belt to have to fiddle with. They were …
Caroline West Virginia State CaptainKathy1221GAnneand 19 others also answered the question Caroline West Virginia State Captainand 21 others also answered the question

23 hours ago

LFAOMGA

LFAOMGA

Just received tornado warnings on my phone. .Iโ€™m .headed for my basement now 

1 day ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

I've had a great weekend.  My  oldest granddaughter came for a visit and yesterday we went to Lowe's and I bought 3 gardenia bushes (to replace bushes that had died in the cold snap Florida had a couple of months ago),  and 2 hanging baskets of flowers. 

Then we went to a lovely party that friends of mine had to pre-celebrate their upcoming wedding, since it's going to be in Massachusetts, and none of us here could be there.  They've been together for 20 years and finally decided it was time to get married ๐Ÿ˜‚  Last night we played Rummikube (she beat me both games!!!) and watched a movie on TV.

Then today we had brunch out and then went to Home Depot where I bought a new  hose.  She's on her way back home now ๐Ÿ˜ญ

Debbie's the Queen of plants, but I'm finally getting a start on mine. โค

1 day ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Tough week, breathing is getting very laboured which really wears me out.Not sure if it is the radiation therapy after effects or just natural progression. Always been able to handle the farm myself with occasional help on the strenuous stuff but that ship has sailed.
This is a heartless evil disease that just keeps chipping away,l am not usually the type to dwell on the negative but last night's talk with the wife about putting the property up for sale has me beyond belief it has come to this.We bought the property in 1981 and built our house and barn in 85,so it has been our whole life.
We are hoping this downturn is a temporary thing that will improve,would love to hear from those who have gone through multiple radiation sessions for lung cancer, l have researched on line but trust the experience of this group more.
Will probably be posting less for a bit till l get my head around all this.Thank you all for your support and friendship throughput my stay on 360 and hope to return with more Fighting Irish fanfare.

1 day ago

Pippilotta64

Pippilotta64

๐Ÿ˜”

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Sunday to all of my special friends here on 360Social! Long list of friends! I consider everyone to be a special friend, and I wish you all the very best on this fine day, and every day! ๐Ÿ˜€

1 day ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainanswered the question I am Wondering if anyone is using the injection of dupixent and if so is it helpful for better breat

I didnโ€™t really notice that Dupixent nor Nucala dried out my sinuses, but we are all different. You can call the specialty pharmacy and talk to the pharmacist there about your concerns and any suggestions you may get.
GAnneBare also answered the question GAnneand 1 other also answered the question

1 day ago

RSguitarist

RSguitarist

Hello, I'm a 52-year-old male recently diagnosed with mild emphysema after a chest CT that was looking at my armpit (which is ok). I am very active physically, averaging 10k-15k steps per day w/ light weight lifting a few times per week. 6'3", 215 lbs. I have long struggled with health anxiety, my father died of a heart attack at 41, and my mother had stage 4 COPD when she passed at 71. I have never used tobacco, but did use marijuana for ~25 years in my social circle, and as a means to deal with anxiety. At this time I am asymptomatic, I have no physical limitations; however, often when I am sitting I become very aware of my breathing and feel like it is more laborious than it should be. When I'm standing, moving, sleeping, or "distracted" I have no issues. I'm hoping that's an anxiety thing, as I have dealt with anxiety based air hunger issues in the past. Anyway, I am overwhelmed by the idea that I am facing this progressive disease with a reduced life quality/expectancy, and what the next years will bring. I came here for information and encouragement, and to read about real life experiences. My PCP does not seem concerned, has not referred me to a pulmonologist, and has simply advised me to never smoke marijuana again, and live a healthy lifestyle. Anyway, that's me, thank you.

2 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • Caroline West Virginia State CaptainI am 82 years old and up until a month ago, when I finally found reliable help) I did all of my housework, raised vegetables in raised beds, tend several flower gardens and planters around the property.  I am still physically active and mentally alert.  I do my own grocery shopping and attend local concerts.  I write a weekly column and a monthly column.  


    I do not think that this is a diminished life for someone 82 years old.  I am on oxygen 24/7 and many things that I do require a little bit more planning, but I still do them.2 days ago
  • das23RSguitarist......Welcome aboard.  I suggest that you see a pulmonologist. Have a PFT (pulmonary function test). That is the only way to get a true diagnosis and you'll know exactly where you stand. You're already doing all the right things--no smoking--exercise--keeping a good weight. Keep that up and good chance you'll have a looong way to go. I'm 74  with moderate COPD and mild Bronchiectasis and I'm in a gym or on a hiking trail on most days. Glad you found us--and--get that PFT...Keep up the good work. ๐Ÿ‘1 day ago
  • HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainI agree that having a Pulmonary Function Test by a trained technician is the only way to KNOW whatโ€™s going on with your lungs. 
    Your primary care doc can order this test and if it shows something he can refer you to a specialist. 
    I agree that itโ€™s best only to put clean air in your lungs, for optimal breathing!1 day ago
GAnne

GAnneanswered the question Dry lips cracked in corners

Thanks everyone, I do eat yogurt and I had the burtโ€™s bees lip balm that I stopped using, but got it out the other day and started using it again. Today my lips feel better. I did notice that while i was on my walker pad that pursed lip breathing seemed …
HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainJeanO53DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainand 2 others also answered the question

2 days ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State CaptainOne of the babies.  The other twin is completely camouflaged in the flower bed with the red mulch.  I can't see it unless it moves and I know where it is.


Your wish is my command, DebbieB.

2 days ago

possumdan

possumdan

well, i'm still above ground.  Trying to find out how to order Trelegy from Canada for $150 instead of $700 from cvs.

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Saturday, friends!
I hope your day will be a nice blend of everything refreshing and filled with goodness!
Enjoy today, and look forward to tomorrow! ๐Ÿ˜€

2 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonMay the best day you have ever had be just a moment away,big deep breaths for all.

2 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Debbie l was looking at your flowers and was reminded of a song by Bob Thiele from the sixties recorded by Louise Armstrong.
Think these days we need a little more Louise and a lot less kid rock.
To refresh
I see trees of green
Red roses too
I see them bloom
For me and you
And l think to myself
What a wonderful world


May you have many more days of peaceful gardening and sharing your photo's with the group.

3 days ago

das23

das23commented onHow COPD Affects Menโ€™s Health

Thanks Kalli..Important information...

3 days ago

GAnne

GAnneasked the question: Dry lips cracked in corners

Good afternoon everybody, what is everybody using for dry lips with cracked corners that will help them. Appreciate your help thank you.

3 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonHope we can all handle the challenges of this day and if it's a bad one hold on till a good one comes along.

3 days ago

Medical Advice

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.