The holiday season can be an extremely stressful time for folks living with COPD, otherwise known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There are so many things that can trigger an attack for the asthma-like condition. It’s easy for those suffering with COPD to want to sit out the entire season.
But there’s no need to sit out the fun and joy that the holiday brings. If you’re one of the 3 million people living with the incurable disease, here are some tips to make this holiday season an enjoyable one.
Having company over:
The holiday is the time for everyone to gather around the table and grub together. With that said, you’ll probably spend time cleaning to prep for having company over. Be careful, though. Many strong-scented cleaning solutions can be bad for people with COPD. Try using some of the nontoxic items you have around your home to clean – baking soda, unscented soap, lemon and white vinegar.
Smell goods:
Candles are so lovable during the holidays – but, the smell and smoke can trigger an attack. You may want to nix these. Consider faux candles or holiday lights instead.
Pulling out decorations:
Most families take the few days after Thanksgiving to put on their favorite Christmas jams and pull out the decorations. However, those decorations have been in storage for the last year – which means, DUST. As a person with COPD, it’s crucial to keep your rescue inhaler nearby while pulling out the decorations. Also, make sure you wear a mask or scarf around your nose/mouth to protect yourself from any dust as you clean off your decorations.
Real Christmas trees:
As with many things of nature, freshly-cut Christmas trees come with their fair share of pollen and mold spores. All of this is bad for people with COPD. If you’re going with a fresh tree this Christmas, rinse it off with a water hose and let it dry in the driveway or garage before bringing it inside to decorate.
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