Copd

Just been diagnosed copd after flare up. How do I recognise a flare up and how do I get rid of co2 retained. Still very breathless after hospital treatment with antibiotics and steroids is this normal,thank you

[Hidden]

Hi Lindajones If you are still breathless after taking steroids and antibiotics I would go back to see your doctor some people need more than one course of medication what stage are you.

[Jessy11]

Hi Lindajones, are you still taking abs & steroids? Sounds like you need another course.

You should not be feeling like this if your infection had gone.

I think you should phone your GP for advice. Don't leave it to chance.

Hope you get well soon 🌺

[jimmyw123]

Hi Lindajones,

In my opinion, there's nothing "normal" with copd , as every body is different, in fact copd covers a multitude of lung issues, [Often called an umbrella effect ] mine could be different from yours etc.

i am still very breathless at the moment after taking 3 lots of antibiotics, and hospital treatment, but i'm still on a cut down dose of steroids.

Due to past experiences, these exacerbations or infections can come in varying forms, some take longer than others to show a big improvement.

If you think you still have the remnants of an infection, best try have a sputum sample tested, so that the proper antibiotic is prescribed for the specific germ.

That will be my next move if there's no bigger improvement soon, but for the moment i shall finish these cut down doses of steroids first, as i have improved slightly.

As far as being an 02 retainer, [are you on oxygen just now ? ] i would see my doctor, or resp nurse, or contact the hospital consultant.

How do you recognise a flare up,? usually when your breathing is worse than usual [i should imagine you would have had a "flare up" in getting hospital treatment ?

A "flare up" can mean, an exacerbation,or an infection, or a worsening of your symptoms.

your post is a little vague to explain much further linda

i do hope you feel better soon

lots of love jimmy xxx

[Hidden in reply to jimmyw123]

I'm not on oxygen just inhalers and I'm pretty sure infection is gone as mucus is clear and little of it, so new to this, it seems I have a lot to learn.this forum is so helpful. Thank you everyone

[Hidden]

Good reply Jimmy x

[Hidden]

Hi a good way to help get rid of CO2 retention is to do breathing exercises which you can find online. I do a good one when I inhale to a count of 3 (through nose or mouth - doesn't make a difference), hold it for a couple of seconds, then breathe out for a count of 6, Continue going as long as you can - do these in private as you will make a noise! Do these 5 at a time and do another batch if you need too. My oxygen level immediately rises by at least 3 points when I do these.

Do you have an oxymeter? This will check the oxygen levels in the blood. I paid £20 for mine from Amazon and have tested it against the doctors and it is accurate. x

[SquirrelsHolt]

Hi there Lindajones. Coughalot has described the breathing tech ique most of us use, really well and it does take a bit of practice, but it does work. Also good for when you're having a panic attack. Deffo go back to your doctor of you're still not feeling right.