Driving with stage 4 COPD while on oxygen.

[Joseph260268]

Driving with stage 4 COPD while on oxygen.

Good morning everyone. I am just about managing to drive myself around with stage 4 COPD while on my oxygen.

Although after my last hospital stay its seems far more difficult. My question is do most stage 4 COPD sufferers on oxygen still drive? If so how do you find it?

Thanking you all in anticipation.

Joe x

[Ergendl]

Not sure. I've certainly seen a couple of oxygen users motoring about on mobility scooters in our area.

[Joseph260268 in reply to Ergendl]

Thank you

[anng18]

Hi Joseph,

My mother drove, although they would not give her oxygen as she smoked occasionally. She always felt much better for being out in her car - she liked the fan in the car , but I think she enjoyed the stimulus of just being out of her flat. She didn't feel so imprisoned. It was very good for her mental health and made her feel more independent.

She would not go out, if she felt too weak to drive. She was very aware of safety aspects.

So good luck to you and I hope you can continue driving safely

😀

[Joseph260268 in reply to anng18]

Thank you.

[Joy123]

I’ve no idea what stage I’m at, I’d rather not know but my lungs are pretty grim with numerous problems. I drive using oxygen, hardest bit is getting to the car! Once in I feel very happy and confident behind the wheel as I always have. Keep driving as long as you can, I intend to. Good luck. Joy. x

[Joseph260268 in reply to Joy123]

Thank you

[Bingo88]

I think you have to do what suits you Joseph260268. I think like a lot of us. Our cars are our independence to get out and about for shopping and appointments and once this is taken away it's very difficult to keep your spirits up. You sound like a responsible person and I am sure you will know when you don't feel upto driving. Take care and long may you have your independence. Brian

[Joseph260268 in reply to Bingo88]

Thank you

[Pricley]

Hi joe260268, im the same as you.I also have bronchiectasis. I'm 72 years old and am trying desperately to drive again Never had an automatic car, my daughter says this will get me back driving. I miss driving like crazy, but my chest is so sore afterwards. What do you think, pricley

[Joseph260268 in reply to Pricley]

Hi there Pricley, is it the seatbelt that hurts your chest or is it the strain of driving?

[Joseph260268 in reply to Pricley]

I will get back to you

[Delamere]

I have severe bronchiectasis and asthma l am on 4ltrs of oxygen 24/7 my car is my lifeline. For me the challenge is getting down the drive into car once in world is my oyster. I have found l pay even more attention to my driving now which l feel has made me a better driver. I can also take my husband to his hospital appointments which makes me feel useful

[Joseph260268 in reply to Delamere]

Thank you.