COPD Advice

[LJ22]

Hi

New Here

My Dad has stage 4 COPD & over last week has started to refuse food because he is scared of being sick.

Is this normal?

Anything I can do to encourage him to eat

[Fleurbaby]

Sadly, when sufferers start to refuse food, it is a sign! Their breathing is so difficult, they choose not to eat, it takes too much effort to eat & breathe, so they choose to breathe.

[katieoxo60]

Hello,. is dad drinking if so ask the doctor for fortisip or the community nurse. It can be bought from boots but is very expensive and they normally only have stock for prescription orders. You can get powders to add to drinks which help if no food can be taken. I understand why dad may not be eating, when you are very ill it is difficult to swallow, breathe or feed yourself. Maybe Macmillan nursing might be able to give advice as your Dad is stage 4, my mum used to eat quavers as she could just suck them & soft fruit goes down easy, jellies, trifles, mousses, OH and it is possible to get ante sickness pills from the doctor if your dad is worried about being sick. I don't blame him I would be worried about choking myself. Hope you can get some sound advice and help on this matter take care you are doing a brilliant job caring for your dads needs.

[Fleurbaby in reply to katieoxo60]

Spot on Katie, I am terrified when I choke

[Fleurbaby]

Also, this is a all too familiar position for a lot of members,(hence why you don't have too many replies yet, but, hopefully they will come), there is some steps you could still take......

1. Palliative care, at the least, THEY will teach you & train you how to treat etc.

2. Hospices, a lot of the same above.

3. A&E, they are obliged to take you, if you call an emergency ambulance, they will give you the best advice.

Good luck

[R2B_Joe Partner]

Hi LJ22 - Is your dad afraid of vomiting? Did he have an experience vomiting after eating or is it just that once you have a full stomach it can be hard to breathe?

If he is just uncomfortable after eating, you could encourage him to "graze". Just eat a little bit, but try to eat a bit more frequently. Also- it is helpful to try to eat nutrient dense foods so that just a little bit will provide adequate nourishment. The suggestion by another member to include nutritional supplement drinks is a very wise suggestion...

Most important is to be encouraging but also respect your dad's wishes. I hope this helps...