With the cold weather there are several special considerations to keep in mind for a COPD patient.

COPD causes a person to become short of breath. Breathing in cold air can irritate the lungs and make these symptoms worse.

Additionally, during the winter months, people with COPD are generally more at risk of a lung infection. To avoid infection and exacerbation, it’s important to follow certain precautions:

• Practice good hygiene, wash hands frequently and keep them away from your face.

• Try to minimize contact with people with symptoms of respiratory illness.

• Immunization against flu and pneumonia is always a good idea for people with COPD.

• Wearing a mask or a scarf around your nose and mouth during the cold weather. If at all possible, avoid going outdoors in extreme weather conditions.

• Call your doctor and seek medical attention as soon as you experience signs and symptoms of infection such as increased shortness of breath, fatigue, wheezing or coughing, fever or chills.

For more information on COPD please call:

October 2011 Article

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Program

At Chinook Respiratory Care our Sleep Apnea Program consists of five simple steps to providing OSA sufferers a healthier sleep.

Education about a healthy sleep is provided in an initial sleep consult. In addition to going over the risk factors we also educate patients on healthy sleep habits.

Screening consists of questionnaires and if required a level three sleep study. These studies are interpreted and recommendations are made.

Diagnosis is made either with a level three study or if required, a level one study is recommended for further evaluation.

Treatment is given on the prescription of the Physician for CPAP therapy. Appropriate equipment and masks are set up as per the patients needs.

Our Follow-up care is the most important part of our program. It is critical to rectify any problems to increase the likelihood that patients accept their treatment and learn to successfully manage their sleep disorder.

If you or someone you know has any of the signs or symptoms of OSA call Chinook Respiratory Care for a free sleep consult with a Respiratory Therapist.