Living with COPD

[beverlyann76]

Hello, my name is Beverly. I have had COPD for the past 5 years. It takes a toll in my life. Can't really do much as I did in the past. Have a question regarding using Vicks. I feel it chokes and stuffs me up. I have read everyone else here saying it helps, it does not in my case. Could it be cause I have emphysema as well? Should I try using Vicks again and see if it works? Suggestions are welcome. Glad to have found this group

[TomTitTot]

Beverly, welcome. 🤗

I'm not sure what outcome you are hoping to achieve from the use of Vicks. Or to what purpose you are using it. We are all so different really with our collective lung diagnosis that while some of us do find Vicks useful, you clearly do not.

The best thing I think, is to know your personal triggers. For example, are you worse around smokers, does new carpet or paint make you wheeze? Can you handle scent, do animals effect you? If you can effectively avoid your personal triggers then you might find ideas such as tea with turmeric and ginger help or strong coffee, etc.

It really will take a little detective work 🕵🏻‍♀️ But once you find what makes you worse, you'll notice then, what makes you better.

Best,

TomTitTot

[y_not]

Hi,

Diagnosed with COPD about 7 years ago - Vicks? Wow, I wouldn't go anywhere near the stuff - creates exacerbation like breathing difficulties!

Can't handle my wife "doing her nails" - she now goes to a nail bar rather than use the strong smelling cleaners/polishes. She has to get me to check air fresheners, household cleaners and scented candles because some varieties cause breathlessness.

As for emphysema - that condition sits under the COPD umbrella so a COPD diagnosis automatically covers it.

If you've not attended a Pulmonary Rehabilitation course then I'd suggest asking your GP for a referral - these courses give you lots of advice on living with COPD, a better understanding of it and the chance to meet with others an share experiences.

Good luck

[sassy59]

Welcome to the group beverlyann and I see you’ve had two really good replies already so hope they help.

Wishing you well. Xxx

[googeymac1]

hi bev, i was diagnosed with copd 10yr's ago, over the last 2yr's around 9pm i found it getting harder to breath, blocked nose gasping for breath , so i tried vick's , which did'nt make any difference, so then i tried white tiger balm, it worked for me, but maybe not for everyone but worth a try

[hallentine47]

I use Vicks when suffering an infection and to help the reducing coughing during the night I have found applying Vick to the souls of my feet than wearing socks has been a great success. My community matron gave me the tip. Other wise I use on the "First Defense" nasal sray Vicks produce.