Catch your breath and relax

Patients who find themselves short of breath can get health advice and free relaxation sessions at a series of events to mark COPD awareness day.

COPD, of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is an 'umbrella' term for people with chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. One of the main contributing factors is smoking and symptoms can include coughing and breathlessness.

There are several ways to relieve the symptoms and COPD awareness day aims to help people recognise the condition in the first place and support those who already have it.

The event is not only for people who have the disease – friends and relatives of sufferers who would like further information are welcome to come along.

Karen Clancy, Nurse Consultant for Management of Long Term Conditions, explains: “The condition tends to develop when people are in their 40s or 50s. People start to develop breathlessness and don’t know why, often putting it down to their age. Some people experience coughing associated with the production of phlegm and can also be wheezy. They might not realise that these symptoms may be linked to COPD.”

“The aim of COPD awareness day is to educate people about the condition and the ways they can relieve the symptoms. Things like exercise, relaxation exercises, getting the right medication and getting support to stop smoking for good can all help.”

Carole Hoyle (59), from Oldham Road, Rochdale, is a COPD patient and Chairwoman of the Breatheasy Support Group. Since her diagnosis approximately 10 years ago, Ms Hoyle has used specialised oxygen equipment to assist her breathing. Ms Hoyle explains: “If you have coughing or breathing difficulties you should see your doctor immediately. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a consultant. You should also join a support group. Our group meet regularly every month and our membership is growing.

“The most important thing is to stay active and not let it beat you. With Breatheasy, we’ve organised day trips such as barbeques and canal trips and recently we held a charity auction with proceeds going to the British Lung Foundation. Going to the gym is also really helpful as not only does it help with breathing but is also good for your joints and stiffness.”

She added: “The help from the PCT, particularly from Karen Clancy and Shane O’Reilly has been brilliant.”

The Open Days take place at St Andrews Church Hall, Rochdale, from 10am-4pm on Monday 12 November, the Masonic Hall in Middleton from 1pm-6pm on Wednesday 14 November, and Trinity Church Hall, Heywood, from 1pm-6pm on Thursday 15 November.

The events are sponsored by Astra and Boehringer Ingelheim and people attending will have the opportunity to meet with various health professionals to obtain advice on self help in COPD, medication, smoking cessation, healthy eating, exercise and relaxation sessions. There will also be an opportunity to have breathing tests carried out.