Exacerbations: How do you avoid... - Bronchiectasis Su...

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Exacerbations

bettyb65 profile image
4 Replies

How do you avoid exacerbations in the Winter?

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bettyb65 profile image
bettyb65
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Patsy164 profile image
Patsy164

Hi Betty I usually keep away from anyone who has a cold or any illness. Try not to go out when it’s bitterly cold, if I have to wrap up warm. That’s about it really. I take vitamin C and D. That’s all I can stomach would like to take more. Some people say take echinacea tablets about September. Make sure you have the flu and top up pneumonia jabs. That’s generally what I do has worked very well this year. X

Matilda_1922 profile image
Matilda_1922 in reply to Patsy164

How often do you need pneumonia vaccine

Guy_Incognito profile image
Guy_Incognito

Hi Betty, agree with Patsy. I try hard to avoid a cold as that is what causes chest infections for me.

I have a LOT of fruit and veg each day (I aim for at least 7 different portions) and take vitamin D as well. I take echinacea if I'm feeling tired, poorly or have come into contact with anyone with a cold.

I have also started using Sterimar (a saltwater nasal spray) whenever I go out or am in a busy environment (e.g. train, meeting, restaurant etc) to clean out any cold virus I may have breathed in from someone sneezing or coughing.

I've also been taking a spoonful of manuka every morning, and gargle with turmeric powder and water each evening.

Don't forget the basics - do whatever exercises (breathing or physical) you do to clear out mucus from your chest. Listen to your body and rest when you are tired.

I don't really know what works and what doesn't but being open-minded and keeping on top of it seems to be working for me so far. I've had one chest infection in the last year.

It can be mentally exhausting at times though!

Matilda_1922 profile image
Matilda_1922

HiI was given chest exercises to help keep my lungs clear and reduce infection. This was arranged by the chest physician