How to help elderly males with lung problems and COPD?

Question

Hello doctor,

My grandfather has some lung problems. I think it is called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or something. He always has an inhaler with him. I am not sure what medicine he is taking, but it seems to help. Sometimes, he forgets to take his medicine, and I do not know what to do. I think he should see a pulmonologist, but he says it is fine. Is there something I can do to help him remember his inhaler? I do not know much about this chronic condition, but I know it affects his breathing a lot. He also mentioned something about his inhaler not working sometimes. Can someone explain what I should do to help him with his medicine and condition?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As you said, your grandfather is suffering from COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), so he has to take inhalers for the rest of his life. Modern-type inhalers that are available nowadays usually have a dose counter on them, which can help him keep track of his daily inhaler doses. Otherwise, he can keep a diary along with him to keep track of daily inhaler usage.

Regular consultations with a pulmonologist are essential since the treatment of COPD needs to be reviewed at regular intervals, and moreover, the correct inhaler technique can be demonstrated by the pulmonologist.

To prevent its complications, the following measures are to be adopted:

1. Avoid smoking.

2. Maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

3. Patients can be enrolled in pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

4. Adult vaccination to be given to the patient.

5. Ensure the consumption of a balanced and nutritious diet.

6. Appropriate treatment of co-morbidities like gastric problems, sleep problems, psychiatric issues, and other systemic illnesses if present.

7. Take your medications regularly and visit a pulmonologist at regular intervals.

I hope this information helps you.

Revert in case of queries.

Regards.