With the holiday season upon us, many of us are looking at our calendars and getting ready for fun parties and events. But how do we stay healthy while still enjoying all of the holiday happenings? Here are some tips for preventing COPD flare-ups.
- Plan ahead for treats and desserts. For some of us, the things we eat can affect our COPD. Some foods may make you feel tired, bloated, or short of breath. If you are expecting to indulge in some holiday treats, consider having a healthy snack before you leave your house. Then, enjoy a smaller serving of your holiday favorites. This can help you to indulge in special treats without overeating or having unpleasant side effects.
- Think about the type of gathering you are going to. Do you expect to be exposed to people with coughs and sneezes? While skipping an event is certainly acceptable, especially when you have a chronic health condition, you could also consider wearing a mask or limiting your time indoors. If the climate where you live is warm, you could do your visiting outside or with the windows open. Even in wintery climates, indoor holiday gatherings can get toasty. Opening a window or two can help to prevent you from overheating. Sometimes feeling hot can make you feel lightheaded or short of breath. The extra ventilation can also help to reduce the spread of germs while still enjoying your visit.
- Keep up your normal activity if possible. While the holidays usually bring a disruption to our usual routines, try to remember to stay active. If you usually walk, do seated exercises, or enjoy other activities, be sure to continue them. These activities can help to reduce stress, keep you healthy, and reduce your shortness of breath.
- Know the warning signs of an exacerbation. While we all want to enjoy our time with our families this holiday season, we also have to be ready for COPD flare-ups. Keep your medications refilled and carry them with you. Watch for a change in the amount or color of your mucus, new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, fever, unusual tiredness, or other unusual symptoms. Follow your Action Plan if you have one. If you don’t, you can download one here and fill it out with your health care provider.
- Be prepared for changes in weather. Both warm and cold weather can affect your COPD symptoms. Cover your mouth with a scarf if you are out in frigid temperatures. If you are in a warmer climate, consider using the air conditioner if you have one. And if you are traveling from one extreme weather condition to another, talk to your health care provider before you leave. You may need a change in medication or oxygen rate to make up for the change in weather or altitude.
What other holiday tips do you like to follow? Let’s share some ideas below.