swiming

[123podmore]

i have emphysema and chronic broct,i am taking antibiotic one week yes and one week no, i do feel much better ,can i go to swim, will prove my health yes or no

[MarieW-F]

I swim. I don't have emphysema, but I do have sarcoidosis and bronchiectasis. I was at a local pool yesterday and swam for 65 minutes albeit slowly. I love it and its done wonders for my physical and mental health and fitness. That said its not for everyone. The smell of chlorine isn't as bad as it used to be but the humidity might cause some problems. I usually have a toot on my inhaler just before I go. If I was you I would go to where you intend to swim, explain the situation and see if you can go poolside. You will see how you manage in the warm air, without needing to take the plunge.. That said the ventilation is far better than it used to be.

Good luck

Marie

[Hidden]

I always thought swimming was fab - but my husband who suffers with COPD cant stand the heat etc. anymore and it makes him feel worse. And then I was taking my daughter swimming - after only the third time I developed the nastiest sinus infection so I'm not sure now! Of course if you have your own pool that's a different thing! TAD xx

[123podmore in reply to Hidden]

i will try it anyway i am tired sitting at home ,i take antibiotic ,i will fight it ,tank you

[helingmic in reply to 123podmore]

It's good to have your confidence, have a go. I have bronchiectasis. I find that I "seize" in the cold water. so I prefer to go to the gym. I find it marvellous. I've had infections lots and, of course, I feel down when I'm having them. But after recovery, I feel like you, cannot sit for ever. The gym is my answer because I can go as slow as I want, moreover, I don't get cold at the gym (or if I do because of the cold air conditioning) I dress up with a jumper or a fleece! Nobody has ever told me off! Quite the contrary, they would encourage anyone in my condition. One of the first times,after a bad infection, I went there with my oxygen bottle. the exercises helped me weaned myself off it.

The instructor told me the other day, please never give up! I like this!

You may have to tread (or swim) carefully at first. Once you feel what happens, you will know where to go! Good luck!

[123podmore]

i have chronics bronchiectasis and emphysema ,i will try it i have nothing to loose

[O2Trees]

Hi pod more - swimming could improve your fitness but that could be at a cost - its different for everyone. You could discuss it with your GP or respiratory nurse.

Marie's idea of poolside visit to test the atmosphere is a great one.

I used swim regularly a good while before my copd diagnosis in 2000 - i have asthma and it helped that a lot. Since copd diagnosis i would always pick something up, mostly ear or sinus infections and would need ABs. So given the amount of medication i take already, I decided to avoid the risk of having to take yet more. Maybe your one week on, one week off AB regime would protect you.

This year I swum in the sea during heat of summer, first time for several years and was surprised I managed 10 minutes, so I'll be doing that next year - Im lucky i live on the coast. It felt wonderful afterwards. Do hope you can sort something - hope it works out for you jean

[rick1]

It is one of the best exercises for your lungs, and weight bearing for your body, give it a go!

[hopetorun]

I go swimming when I can but do suffer with infections regularly whether that is to do with pool or general environment who is to say. Most pools are open to schools so the mucky oichs sorry the young people are not always hygienic in their habits. Give it a go you may find it makes you tired but don't give up.

[peege in reply to hopetorun]

I love it, mucky oichs!

[123podmore in reply to hopetorun]

i been yesterday swimming and sauna i really enjoyed thank you all, what is oichs?

[hopetorun in reply to 123podmore]

Dear 123 Podmore it is a derogatory term for a young person which some people may find offensive if taken out of context as it was meant in jest. regards Irene

[PollyP]

If you love swimming then perhaps wait until your infection clears before you jump in.

Have you tried this DVD? Functional Fitness for COPD & Asthma. It is available from Amazon, the 25 mins of exercises can be done from sitting, so very gentle and then when fitter can be done from standing. I bought this DVD from Amazon a while ago.

Good luck and hope you feel better soon.

PollyP x

[ptliverpool]

I went swimming last month on holiday it was wonderful but that was in an empty pool in an apartment complex noone about and no children using the pool. I don't think I would chance a public pool (too much risk of infection).I have Bronchiectasis and find exercise, as and when, is really- really good for me.

[Shadwell]

I go swimming twice a week and have done for the last year and never picked any thing up when I swim I feel so much fitter and my breathing is remarkable for days after it's very good for the lungs you can pick germs up any were so give it a go try to keep your face & head out of the water good luck

[Maximonkey]

Hi I suffer from Asthma and Bronchiectasis and as soon as I felt well enough I asked my consultants advice and he told me to go for it but not to use the shower facilities as they are not as germ free as they should be. I go to the local baths 3 times and week and dry off and shower at home. I have stayed well for the last 7 months. Go for it. Maximonkey