Copd question

[Scottish65lass]

Rejoining local spa/gym, are sauna & steam rooms good for copd sufferers and which if any are best. Thankyou, you amazing people xx

[Ergendl]

I can't handle a steam room, or even the tropical bird house at the local zoo. I have COPD with FEV1 now classed in the normal range.

You may be different, as our conditions affect us in different ways.

[Scottish65lass in reply to Ergendl]

What is the fev and a number after the copd. I was just told I had moderate copd, but there’s other bits to it?!

[Ergendl in reply to Scottish65lass]

The FEV1 figure is one that is calculated from your results when you do a respiratory test. My first annual tests with my surgery Respiratory Nurse produced FEV1 results around 68% to 69%, which she classed in the moderate range. My last test with her in August had improved to 82%, which is back in the normal range. This doesn't mean I'm cured: I got a print out of the results from her computer and you can still see the obstruction in the curves on the graph. But all the singing and the exercise I have built up to doing regularly each week, have made a real difference.

Next time you have a respiratory test, ask to be given a print out of the results.

[Caspiana]

I cannot go into anywhere steamy Scottish65lass . Even the shower, I simply cannot breathe, so I can't say it's "good" for me . But joining a gym and doing gentle exercises would be fantastic I think. xx 😊

[Scottish65lass in reply to Caspiana]

I just wondered if it was good or more harmful xx

[Caspiana in reply to Scottish65lass]

Hmmm ... I'm not really qualified to answer that Scottish65lass . I only speak from my experience I would probably pass out very promptly in a sauna because breathing would be very difficult. I think it's something you could ask your doctor at your next consultation. Enjoy your Sunday. xx 😊👍

[Skatergirl1]

I think it is a personal thing. I myself enjoy the steam room and sauna and feel it cleans my airways so added bonus. My advice, try for a few minutes and see how you get on xx

[Scottish65lass in reply to Skatergirl1]

Thankyou, can only try, if it’s too much j can leave 😜 happy days xx

[Lemon7]

Good for you joining gym. Hope you enjoy it. Best wishes to you.

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

Welcome to the site,. I was told not to use a steam room, but I am ok in a steamy shower. I would get medical advice if you are unsure. Please keep posting have a good day and take care of yourself 😊 Bernadette xx

[2greys]

I am among those who cannot breath in steamy air. When I have a bath the window and door have to be open, in the winter I have to leave the door open and have a pedestal fan blowing in through the door to clear the steam. High humidity and heat in the summer months also makes my breathing worse.

[flicky1]

I have seen warnings outside steam rooms and saunas that those with lung conditions should not use them. The explanation I have been given is that they can be a breeding ground for infections. Makes sense to me, in such a warm, damp environment.

[soulsaver]

Add to what flicky1 says; steam room can help to move mucus - trouble is that's why others use it to sweat out a cold, and risk passing their germs onto you.

But I have used them without any problems (mild end of moderate copd).

[music]

hi scottish65lass

I always find steam rooms good for me helps me clear gunk up from my chest.

music