There are medications that are contraindicated with people suffering from COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.)
COPD is an "umbrella diagnosis that includes emphysema, bronchitis, and often asthma. However, only your doctor can decide what is best for you. Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind. ALWAYS DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ANY NEW MEDICATIONS.
Medications CONTRAINDICATED In People With COPD:
1) Antitussives:---- supresses cough. Coughing plays an important, protective role with people suffering from COPD by allowing them to cough up those secretions. (Inability to "cough up" or clear those secretions can lead to pneumonia...especially in patients who are bed-ridden.)
2) Beta Blockers:---
may produce bronchospasm in those with airway disease. ***If you
are taking Beta Blockers, DO NOT STOP TAKING THEM.*** Instead,
speak to your doctor about your concerns.
3) Diurectis:--- causes the body to lose fluid and electrolytes (especially potassium.) Keeping hydrated is EXTREMELY important in order to thin secretions which will facilitate a more productive cough.
4) Narcotics:--- to be used with caution due to the effect it has on depressing the respiratory system. Although, narcotics (such as opiods like morhine) are commonly used in end-stage respiratory disease for comfort and relax the respiratory drive.
5) Antihistamines:--- (Benedryl) can promote drying and sedation causing a depression in the respiratory drive.
6) Ephidrine:--- an ingredient that can still be found in over-the-counter medications.
3) Diurectis:--- causes the body to lose fluid and electrolytes (especially potassium.) Keeping hydrated is EXTREMELY important in order to thin secretions which will facilitate a more productive cough.
4) Narcotics:--- to be used with caution due to the effect it has on depressing the respiratory system. Although, narcotics (such as opiods like morhine) are commonly used in end-stage respiratory disease for comfort and relax the respiratory drive.
5) Antihistamines:--- (Benedryl) can promote drying and sedation causing a depression in the respiratory drive.
6) Ephidrine:--- an ingredient that can still be found in over-the-counter medications.
Foods to avoid for people suffering with COPD:
1) Sodium: Salt
is the major component in sodium, and with large intakes can cause the
body to retain water. This can result in shortness of breath
(especially on exertion) and fatigue. Limit the amount you salt
your food.
2) Avoid fast food:--- as they are usually loaded with sodium.
3) Avoid sauces and gravies:--- esecially in restaurants. (Restaurants use sodium as a preservative, therefore, the food is usually high in sodium.)
4) Avoid canned vegetables and soups:---These are both very high in sodium. Try using frozen or fresh vegetables whenever possible.
2) Avoid fast food:--- as they are usually loaded with sodium.
3) Avoid sauces and gravies:--- esecially in restaurants. (Restaurants use sodium as a preservative, therefore, the food is usually high in sodium.)
4) Avoid canned vegetables and soups:---These are both very high in sodium. Try using frozen or fresh vegetables whenever possible.
Keep in mind:
Only your doctor can help you decide
what medications and diets are best for you. Also be aware of any
swelling/edema (especially in the lower extremites such as feet and
ankles and report difficulty breathing ASAP. COPD exacerbation
can usually be treated quickly and successfully.
---Smoking is a risk for everyone; ESPECIALLY those who are already suffering from COPD.
---Don't over-due it. Be careful not to exert yourself physically and plan regular rest periods.
Best wishes~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~AnnlynnRN
---Smoking is a risk for everyone; ESPECIALLY those who are already suffering from COPD.
---Don't over-due it. Be careful not to exert yourself physically and plan regular rest periods.
Best wishes~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~AnnlynnRN
Edited by AnnlynnRN on April 24 2005 at 6:31am
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