Sick Lungs Don't Show

It's absolutely amazing the number of times you'll hear "You Don't Look Sick"; even from Doctors. 

The following has been adapted from the 1998 EFFORTS Brochure by Edna Fiore.  It has circled the net many times through forums and e mails between COPDer's.  Many have printed it off and given to family or friends.

Sick Lungs Don't Show

I may not look sick; BUT.....I have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  What is COPD?  It includes such illnesses as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and sometimes asthma.  It is primarily characterized by extreme shortness of breath.

LIVING WITH COPD IS VERY RESTRICTIVE

It means having to avoid strong odors, smoke, flowers, perfumes, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, vehicle exhaust, shaving lotion, bath powders, incense.  I also have to avoid extremes or wind, crowds, molds and dusty places because they make me short of breath.

PHYSICALLY

Living with COPD can mean having difficulty walking up stairs or inclines, not walking very far, being unable to "rush" or "being rushed" tiring easily - especially if things last too long, being unable to tolerate tight clothing and the inability to talk for any length of time.

SOCIALLY

Living with COPD can mean coughing in public which attracts attention and embarrasses me, having to use or wear devices or equipment, or take medication which invites public comment (oxygen, cold weather  masks, inhalers) being concerned, often excessively) about contact with cold or flu germs, and having my friends make short, pleasant visits.

EMOTIONALLY

Living with COPD can mean crying easily, angering easily, becoming frustrated and impatient because I can't do the things I use to do.  Feeling resentful when others tell me "You don't look sick."  It can cause me to be panicky and tense, and becoming dependent because it's frightening when I can't breathe.

COPD AFFECTS MY FAMILY TOO

By having to adapt to my physical, emotional, social and environmental needs and limitations, often having to leave social functions earlier than they wish because of me or sometimes never getting there and by having to check out  all the details in advance, getting places early and all the while having to remain calm and reassuring at all times on my account.

REMEMBER: I may not look sick but -- SICK LUNGS DON'T SHOW!!!

                                       ALSO

Dear Family - an open letter written by a former COPD patient to her family..