COVID-19 Coronavirus and Lung Health: What can you do?

Posted by Merry, Alumni Mentor @merpreb, Mar 1, 2020

Good morning- I have hesitated to post anything about this new and dangerous group of viruses because I am certainly not qualified to discuss any science. And certainly not about genetics and viruses. But I can discuss how we can lessen our fears, be as prepared as we can and very simply if we get it, what do we do?

First of all the COVID-19 is the name for many similar viruses. It's not just one. It is believed to have started by bat guana in Wuhan, China. Wuhan is the very large capital of Central China’s Hubei province. It is a commercial center divided by the Yangtze and Han rivers. This virus spread very quickly, perhaps like the flu. And because of travel. it is spreading throughout the world, and it is here in America. This is a group of very dangerous viruses has the potential to kill and has. Many of us with breathing problems must be very diligent to protect ourselves as much as we can.

You can help protect yourself by doing these things:

Keep your hands clean. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover your cough and sneezes to keep germs from spreading to others. Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces routinely. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick.

If you have these symptoms please see a doctor: Fever, Cough, Shortness of breath

I know that a lot of us have at least two of these symptoms already. So if your shortness of breath or your coughs become worse and you feel ill then it is time to seek medical help.

Here are several sites that have addressed the Coronavirus for more information.

If you know of anyone who is ill please stay away from them. Passing along the facts about this group of viruses is the best that you can do to help others avoid getting ill.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Post-COVID Recovery & COVID-19 Support Group.

jerrynord | @jerrynord | Apr 4, 2020

In reply to @contentandwell "@jerrynord we are! I just didn’t train my husband very well. 🥴 JK" + (show)

In other words-You spoiled him.

Merry, Alumni Mentor | @merpreb | Apr 4, 2020

Good morning all- I know that we have mainly talked about the CIVD-19 virus. I mean, how could we not? But I think that we are also forgetting that each one of us has some sort of lung issues. For me, it's COPD with emphysema and lung cancer. I haven't needed any treatments during this time. I did, however, have my pulmonologist help me with some medicine for an infection a couple of weeks ago. I had a bad cough and lots of phlegm. My breathing has remained pretty good, but during times of stress it does pick up. How have all your plans altered during this time? How are you all feeling? Has anyone been ill or have the virus?

fiesty76 | @fiesty76 | Apr 4, 2020

Thanks for asking, Merry. It is good to hear that you are doing as well as you are now. I have been most fortunate to not have more symptoms than the ordinary congestion from spring allergies. I keep my fingers crossed because that congestion often leads to infection and bronchitis. As a result I've spent less time outside and I'm also using a nasal cleanse, (bottle with saline solution) each day after being outdoors to keep the mucus cleared from back of throat. For those of us with lung issues, distancing as much as possible may be our very best safeguard and protection from the virus.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Apr 4, 2020

In reply to @susangourdlady "where is it ?" + (show)

@susangourdlady Here is the link to the new discussion that @fiesty76 started

- Suggested Ways to Prevent Anxiety & Sources of Help If Needed https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/suggested-ways-to-prevent-anxiety-sources-of-help-if-needed/

Merry, Alumni Mentor | @merpreb | Apr 7, 2020

Good morning- For those of you just joining here is a great video explaining how COVID-19 attacks the body. The video is at the top center.
https://www.nytimes.com/

baz10 | @baz10 | Apr 7, 2020

In reply to @merpreb "@spudmato- I've been thinking about whether I should stop PT. There are a lot of people..." + (show)

I did stop my PT and continued doing the exercises at home. So best wishes to you whatever you decide. Baz

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Apr 8, 2020

@merpreb. Here is the chart of COVID-19 symptoms that you wished to post. It's a great at-a-glance overview comparing the symptoms of COVID-19, the flu and the common cold to help people distinguish their symptoms if they are worried that they might have COVID-19.