COPD

[Sallyhoad]

Hi, me again 🙄 sorry.

So dad been in hospital again. More antibiotics and steroids. Now on oxygen 24/7

This is the 5th time he has been in this year and he never really gets better.

He has fluid retention that he is taking water tablets for. He has right sided heart failure.

Last week he was out of breath with the most simple tasks and couldn’t walk two steps.

More antibiotics and steroids and he is still struggling to walk or eat without getting out of breath.

He sleeps more than he is awake and he is very depressed.

I want other people’s thoughts. Because I am so scared and every night I worry that the phone will ring.

He can’t even get to the car now to go for a drive. What happens now?

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

So sorry to hear your dad is having so many problems, it's so hard watching someone you love struggling. Keep giving him support and love it can work wonders, does his Gp know about kids depression?, If not then please let them know. Please keep us updated on your dad, and make sure they know a out the depression as that won't be helping matters. Have a lovely day and take care of yourself 😊 Bernadette xx

[Caspiana]

Hello Sally. 👋

I think about a month ago you wrote a similar post. And the response from many of us was we here on this forum really cannot tell you your dad's prognosis. And I think you were advised to be in touch with his medical team, you were told he was at end stage lung disease. So, I'm afraid I cannot tell you what happens next as I don't know and I doubt anyone has an answer.

I think by now you may know his quality of life is not great. In my experience, trying to improve his day to day life may help him rally a bit. You don't mention how much his medics are involved. Does he have nurse visits? Has anyone suggested palliative care or hospice care? Does he have a caregiver all the time? Are they (caregiver) managing to support him as well as keep themselves well mentally and physically? Being a caregiver is often underrated. It is a tough, tough job, no matter how much you may love someone. Is he is pain? If so, does he have adequate pain management? Pain can make life terribly unbearable, draining and miserable. Is he on any medication to help him breathe easier? Sometimes a fan or raising the head of the bed can relieve breathlessness. Fatigue is a big issue as well. Would he be more comfortable with a commode rather than walking to the bathroom? Perhaps a sponge down rather than a bath? We as family members tend to look at the symptoms of illness rather than other factors that may make our loved ones more relaxed. How far away do you live from your dad? Would moving back home to spend more time with him ease your fears somewhat?

I really hope your dad improves, but I think you may have to come to terms that this may be his new norm. There may not seem to be much you can work with to make him completely better, but I think on close inspection you will find many things to make him comfortable. It's important to let him know how much you love him and are there for him.

I'm really sorry things are so breathtakingly hard right now. Sending love and hugs. Keep your chin up.

Cas xx 🙋🐕

[HungryHufflepuff]

I am sorry to know your dad is having such a hard time. Just a thought, is he seeing a cardiologist? I'm sure he is, but a lot of those symptoms could be due to his heart failure and not just the lung condition. Thinking of you and your dad 💐

[Croydonia]

Nothing to add to Caspiana’s very helpful reply, but just to say I’m thinking of you and wishing you and your Dad the best.

[Izb1]

Thining of you Sallyhoad , its a hard time looking after loved ones, the best you can do for them is just be there when they need you x