Helpful Tips to help manage your COPD in summer.
Everyone knows summer heat and humidity can make you feel uncomfortable, but for many people with COPD, summer is not only uncomfortable, it can also be very dangerous if not controlled correctly.
Our body is always working to maintain a normal body temperature. If you have COPD, your body may already be using more energy to breathe so the added stress of summer can make your breathing even harder. Therefore it is not uncommon to experience a greater level of shortness of breath in the hot summer months.
Here are a few helpful tips to help you survive the hot and humid summer months:
1. Drink plenty of fluids.
-Drink more than regular, even if you do not feel thirsty or have not been active.
2. Stay indoors if possible.
-Stay indoors in air conditioning and limit your time outside.
-If you have to go outside, do so in early morning or after the sun sets.
3. Plan your activities.
-Plan your day to involve going places with air conditioning.
4. Make sure to check the air quality report on the weather as well.
5. Review your COPD action plan
If you have COPD contact us to set up an appointment with our Respiratory Therapist and we can help you start managing your COPD successfully today! 309-347-4277
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