Do you often get that uncomfortable feeling that you are running out of air or are not able to breathe deeply enough?
If so, have you considered you could have COPD?
COPD – or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – is a group of lung conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that cause breathing difficulties.
The breathing problems can get gradually worse over time and limit your normal activities, although treatment can help keep the condition under control.
It mainly affects middle-aged or older adults who smoke, but many people do not realise they have it.
A diagnosis of COPD should be considered in any patient who has shortness of breath, a chronic chesty cough, frequent chest infections, or persistent wheezing. It’s more likely to be COPD if you’re a current or past smoker or have been exposed to risk factors like cooking fuels or occupational hazards like dust, fumes and chemicals.
On Wednesday 19th November, BreathingSpace in Rotherham is hosting a public health event for World COPD Day for anyone who wants to understand more about lung conditions or how to improve their quality of life or that of a loved one.
There will be information stand about inhaler techniques, stop smoking support, and pulmonary rehabilitation, along with other healthcare professionals from the lung nursing, talking therapies, dietician and social prescribing teams.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue will also be at the event, along with community and networking stalls. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.
For more information, call 01709 421700. Or just drop in on the day between 10.30am and 2pm.
BreathingSpace, Badsley Moore Lane, Rotherham S65 2QL
