Improving Your Quality of Life

Presented by Carol Bair, RCPPresented by Carol Bair, RCP

I’ve been diagnosed with IPF….now what happens?

You may not be able to control your lung disease, but you can choose to make positive decisions.

Although there are CURRENTLY no proven treatments for IPF there are lifestyle changes than you can make….

If you haven’t already

—STOP SMOKING—because nicotine is addictive, this can be very difficult to do…if you need assistance with this please ask your physician about Smoking Cessation Programs.

Stay in Shape

Often times people limit their activities due to their shortness of breath or breathlessness. We will discuss the “Vicious Circle of Dyspnea”.

THE VICIOUS CIRCLE OF DYSPNEA

INACTIVITY

ANXIETY

DYSPNEA

ACTIVITY

FEAR DEPRESSION

Due to the increased shortness of breath you will become inactive…this will actually work against you.

Deconditioning of your muscles will make your daily activities harder to perform…Exercising regularly increases your muscle strength and endurance.

Fear is a common emotion you or your partner may have. Share your ideas, fears, and joys. You are a part of your healthcare team. Be a participant!

Maintain Healthy EatingMaintain Healthy Eating

Maintaining a healthy weight is vital to keep your muscles strong and increases your ability to fight any infections.

Eat smaller more frequent meals since it is harder to breath when your stomach if full.

You may need to eat fewer of the foods that cause discomfort or gas (ie. Beans, spicy foods, onions, fatty foods, fried foods, carbonated drinks).

Try to breathe evenly when eating. You should stop eating if you need to catch your breath.

Plan to eat before you are hungry or too tired. Refuel before you are on EMPTY.

Relax at mealtime.

Use of Supplemental OxygenUse of Supplemental Oxygen Your body requires a certain level of oxygen. Your oxygen level is measured by either using a pulse oximeter or obtaining a blood sample from your artery. If it is determined that your oxygen level is low, supplemental oxygen will be ordered by your physician.

If your physician orders oxygen If your physician orders oxygen for you– USE IT!for you– USE IT! This will decrease the extra work on your heart, kidneys and blood vessels. Maintaining the adequate levels of oxygen in your blood will help improve your sleep,reduce fatigue, increase your ability to do more and go farther.

Use Support SystemUse Support SystemDepression, sadness, anger and grief are normal responses to losses that often accompany illnesses. First of all…START TALKING. Once

you begin talking you will find it easier to talk each time.

Join a Support Group…

Knowing that there are others “out there” that share your ideas, joys and sorrows often times is comforting. Seek professional as needed.

Keep a positive attitude.