Expert: Margot RN BScN CGN - 8/30/2006

Question
My husband was diagnosed with copd in July of 2005.  He was hospitalized 8/10/2006 with extreme breathing difficulties.  After 8 days in the hospital, he was sent home with oxygen 24/7, and a visiting nurse 2 times a week.  He seems to be getting worse with each passing day.  He also has congestive heart failure and a rare form of arthritis.  They gave him a pulmonary function test in the hospital.  We do not know the results, and are not scheduled for a follow-up appointment with the pulmonary doctor until 10/2.  We are both so frustrated and concerned about his current quality of life.  Do you have any suggestions for us?  He is 59 years old.  What does our future hold?

Answer
Hi Charlotte and thanks for writing,

Your husband has two diseases that have similar symptoms which can be confusing. Obviously COPD causes Shortness of Breath (SOB) but so can Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).

You need to learn to watch for signs of the CHF getting worse which can include weight gian, swollen ankles and wheezing. This can be treated with diuretic medications which will take some of the water off his lungs and ease his breathing. The Homecare Nures can educate you on this and you should ask them when they visit what they are assessing, what they found, and what they plan to do to treat it.

I hope this helps and good luck,

Margot