COPD is an abbreviation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

COPD includes such illnesses as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and sometimes asthma. It is primarily characterised by extreme shortness of breath.

LIVING WITH COPD IS VERY RESTRICTIVE
It means having to avoid strong odours, smoke, flowers, perfumes, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, vehicle exhaust, shaving lotion, bath powders, incense. Also having to avoid temperature extremes or wind, crowds, moulds, and dusty places because they can create shortness of breath.

PHYSICALLY
Living with COPD can mean having difficulty walking up stairs or inclines, not walking very far, unable to rush or “being rushed”, tiring easily, especially if things last too long, being unable to tolerate tight clothing and the inability to talk for any length of time.

SOCIALLY
Living with COPD can mean coughing In public, which attracts attention and embarrasment, having to use or wear devices or equipment or take medication which invites public comment, (oxygen, cold weather masks, being concerned (often excessively) about contact with cold or flu germs, and having friends make short, pleasant, smokeless visits.

EMOTIONALLY
Living with COPD can mean crying easily, becoming frustrated and impatient because we can’t do the things we used to do. Feeling resentful when others tell you, “You don’t look sick.” It can cause you to be panicky and tense, and becoming demanding because it’s frightening when you can’t breathe.

COPD AFFECTS CLOSE FAMILY
By having to adapt to our physical, emotional, social and environmental needs and limitations, often having to Ieave social functions earlier than they wish because of us or sometimes never getting there and by having to check out all of the details in advance, getting places early and all the while having to remain calm and reassuring at all times on our account.