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| Information for
Patients |
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If you have been diagnosed with IPF, there are a number of things you can do
to take part in your own treatment and help yourself stay healthy. Caregivers
may also be interested in the following information to assist in helping a
family member diagnosed with IPF.
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● Take all prescribed medications as instructed by
your doctor.
● If you smoke, it is very
important that you stop as soon as possible. Ask your doctor or nurse about
smoking cessation programs and products that can help.
● Eat a well-balanced diet. This helps support your
body and keeps up your strength. Discuss any special nutritional concerns with
your doctor or nurse.
● Consider eating
smaller, more frequent meals during the course of your day. Many patients find
it easier to breathe when their stomach isn't completely full.
● Try some moderate exercise, such as walking or
riding a stationary bicycle. If you're already exercising, keep up your regular
workout. This helps you maintain strength and lung function. Talk to your doctor
before starting a new exercise program. Those who need to can generally use
oxygen during this kind of activity.
● Consider enrolling in a pulmonary rehabilitation program to help increase your
strength, learn breathing techniques, and expand your social support network.
Ask your doctor or nurse for more details.
● Your doctor may prescribe supplemental oxygen, which helps supply your body with
the oxygen it needs but your lungs can no longer deliver. Some patients fear
that they will become addicted to oxygen, but this is not true. Supplemental
oxygen can help you feel less breathless and more energetic.
● Join a support group in your community or start one
of your own. It's a great way to get the emotional support you need.
● Call your doctor or nurse with any questions about
your condition or its treatment. If you notice anything unusual about how you
are feeling or how your medicines are working, call your doctor right away.
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| Information for
Caregivers |
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You and your loved one may be coping with a great deal of
stress and anxiety as a result of your current situation. If you ignore these
feelings, they can have a negative impact on your health and well-being. To help
reduce the stress in your life, try to get regular exercise and learn some
relaxation techniques. You may also want to join a support group or to see a
counselor to help you cope with your feelings. It is important for both of you
to ask for and get the help that you need. You may also want to review the
patient information above, because you may be assisting your loved one with some
of these recommendations and lifestyle changes.Also, check out our Resources
section for helpful Web sites.
"To Be A Caregiver" by Mary Cody, Courtesy of the ALA of
Minnesota" |
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