Open Airways to host the COPD Health Fair

Open Airways will host a COPD Health Fair and Free Afternoon Tea on November 16 that “will offer free flu shots, expert information and helpful gifts for patients.”

A spokesperson said: “Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious and often misunderstood health condition. According to the World Health Organisation, it ranks as the third leading cause of death globally. COPD is an incurable disease that results in significant lung damage, causing symptoms such as breathlessness, chronic cough, wheezing and overproduction of mucus With mucus blocking the airways, swollen airways and trapped air in the lungs, everyday activities can become increasingly difficult.

“The primary cause of COPD is smoking or a history of smoking, but exposure to air pollution, work-related irritants such as paint or dust, and sometimes genetics can also contribute to its development. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention Spirometry is a simple test that requires blowing into a mouthpiece to measure lung function, which can confirm a COPD diagnosis.

“In Bermuda, there are effective medications, mainly inhalers, designed to manage COPD symptoms. Patients usually take one or two doses daily, along with an extra dose of another inhaler for times when breathing becomes more difficult. It is important to have the the best inhalers for your individual symptoms and you need to know how to use them correctly.

“During exacerbations, when symptoms worsen, additional treatments such as antibiotics or steroids may be necessary, often guided by blood tests. Preventing respiratory infections is particularly important for COPD patients, with recommended vaccinations including influenza, covid-19, pneumonia, shingles, RSV and pertussis or whooping cough.

“If you smoke, it’s important to seek help to quit, as it dramatically improves lung health. Support options, including nicotine replacement therapy, can greatly increase your chances of quitting. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet, hydration and regular exercise also helps to manage symptoms.Being short of breath is hard work and takes a lot of energy.Some patients lose weight and muscle quickly, and a high-protein diet can help.

“Mental health is equally important; if you feel anxious or depressed, don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family or caregivers for support.

“Although exercise seems daunting when breathless, recommendations to slow progression mean increasing exercise safely. Simple tests can assess whether oxygen would be helpful for your symptoms and to allow you to increase exercise. Oxygen must be prescribed by doctors as too much is dangerous for COPD patients.

“Open Airways provides free consultations to help patients and to help them manage their condition. All of our services are free and no referral is necessary. For more information, call 536-6060 or email [email protected].

“As part of November’s COPD Awareness Week, Open Airways is hosting a COPD Health Fair and free Afternoon Tea. This event will offer free flu shots, expert information and useful gifts for patients. Patients can also bring a driver or carer.

RSVP is encouraged: [email protected] or 536-6060. Let’s come together to raise awareness of COPD and support those living with this condition. You are not alone, help is available and there is hope for a better quality of life.

“Please note this health fair is for COPD and is not relevant to those with asthma. Please bring your inhalers.”