In a proactive effort to raise awareness about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as part of the initiative for World COPD Day, COPD Support Ireland is launching an extensive nationwide roadshow.
The COPD & Me Roadshow is scheduled to make its next stop at the Crescent Shopping Centre in the vibrant city of Limerick on Tuesday, November 19, from 9:30am to 11:30am, just a day prior to World COPD Day on Wednesday, November 20.
This health initiative will feature a dedicated team of COPD health professionals who will be providing free spirometry testing, making it accessible for the public to assess their lung health.
Spirometry testing is a straightforward and non-invasive procedure that involves breathing into a device known as a spirometer, designed to measure both the volume of air expelled in one second and the total volume released to help identify any blockages in airflow.
A highly trained respiratory physiologist will administer the spirometry test, while a specialized healthcare professional will be present to offer crucial health information and guidance on potential next steps for attendees.
COPD Support Ireland strongly encourages individuals who experience symptoms such as breathlessness or a persistent cough, with or without phlegm, to consult their GP about undergoing a spirometry test to ensure early detection and management.
Across the country, many GP practices have established direct access to HSE Spirometry Services located in local Integrated Care Hubs to streamline this essential testing.
In addition to the roadshow, COPD Support Ireland has published a new resource titled “COPD & Me.” This comprehensive booklet is an invaluable guide for individuals navigating life with COPD, offering a wealth of information that encompasses diagnosis, treatment options, exercise recommendations, nutritional advice, and mental health considerations.
For complete details on the roadshow’s dates and locations nationwide, or to download and order a copy of the “COPD & Me” booklet, interested individuals can visit www.copd.ie
Recent statistics reveal a concerning trend, showing that between 2020 and 2022, there were 1,145 hospital admissions in Limerick attributed to COPD complications.
According to the National Healthcare Quality Reporting System Report 2021/2022, a staggering estimate suggests that approximately 380,000 individuals in Ireland are living with COPD, though only about 110,000 of them have received a formal diagnosis, highlighting a significant gap in awareness and treatment.
Marie Hennessy, a resident of Corbally, reflects on her journey with COPD, as she was diagnosed with the condition in 2004, prompting a continuous path of medication and treatment over the years.
She noted, “Initially, I was prescribed an inhaler, later adding a second one for emergency use. Over the years, other medications were incorporated into my regimen, including a low-dose antibiotic each morning and saline nebulization twice daily, due to recurrent chest infections.”
Expressing her gratitude, Marie remarked, “I am fortunate to have a supportive family and a dedicated GP. My condition has remained relatively stable, only recently have I started to experience shortness of breath after moderate exercise.”
“I continue to enjoy my daily walks, albeit with necessary breaks, and actively participate in a weekly COPD exercise group. Singing in a choir has also proven highly beneficial for my breathing, and engaging in other community groups significantly contributes to my mental health.”
A proud member of the Limerick COPD Support Group, Marie actively shares her experiences to raise awareness.
Associate Professor Stanley Miller, a leading consultant respiratory physician and chair of COPD Support Ireland, elucidates the condition: “COPD encompasses both emphysema, which harms lung air sacs, and chronic bronchitis, characterized by airway inflammation. This condition allows adequate airflow into the lungs but significantly hinders efficient air expulsion, leading to breathlessness.”
He emphasized, “Although COPD cannot be cured, it is treatable, with specialist HSE respiratory teams in Integrated Care Hubs enabling thousands to access treatment close to home. By melding professional healthcare management with self-care strategies, individuals with COPD can greatly enhance their quality of life.”
Joan Johnston, the general manager of COPD Support Ireland, passionately urges the public to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of COPD and seek assistance if they have any concerns: “A significant number of individuals in Ireland are affected by COPD without their knowledge, often attributing symptoms to aging or failing to recognize early-stage signs due to their subtlety.”
Joan concludes, “World COPD Day plays a critical role in illuminating this disease and promoting the essential steps individuals can take for better lung health. Ongoing breathlessness and coughing, with or without phlegm, should prompt a visit to your GP for a spirometry test. If diagnosed with COPD, joining COPD Support Ireland opens up a wealth of resources and support.”
For those with concerns regarding COPD, a dedicated COPD Advice Line is available at Freefone 1800 832 146, operating Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, offering callbacks from respiratory health professionals ready to assist with questions and referrals to local support services.
The COPD & Me Roadshow proudly receives support from key health organizations including GSK, Vitalograph, AstraZeneca, and A Menarini.
COPD & Me: The Roadshow That’s Got Everyone Breathing a Little Easier
Ah, World COPD Day—an event that really gets the lungs expanding and the gags flowing! COPD Support Ireland is embarking on a nationwide roadshow to spread the word about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Yes, that’s right folks, it’s a serious health condition, but we can all take a deep breath and learn a little more about it together!
When and Where: Limerick, Here We Come!
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, November 19, as the COPD & Me Roadshow makes its pitstop at the Crescent Shopping Centre in Limerick city from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. We all know shopping can be a bit breathless—mainly from racing to grab that last pair of shoes—but this time, you might actually get some help breathing! Don’t you just love multitasking?
Spirometry Testing: Free and Easy!
Now, before you think “spirometry” sounds like a new trendy diet, let’s clarify: it’s not about blowing out birthday candles but rather a simple, painless breathing test. You’ll breathe into a device called a spirometer, which determines how much air you can huff and puff. If you’re worried that your lungs might be taking a vacation without you, this test will give you the answers you need!
You’ll be tested by a skilled respiratory physiologist and will have a specialist on hand to give you top-notch health advice. You might be struggling to keep up with your toddler, but at least you’ll know why!
Don’t Wait for Breathing Problems to Spoil the Fun!
COPD Support Ireland is laying down the law here: if you’ve been feeling unusually breathless or if that annoying cough feels like it’s become your new best friend, it’s time to check in with your GP. Trust me, “getting older” is not the excuse worth using; do you really want to credit your deteriorating lungs to the passage of time? Now that’s just depressing.
Introducing the COPD & Me Booklet
And let’s not forget the shiny new booklet, COPD & Me—because nothing says “fun” like reading about chronic illnesses over your morning coffee! This essential guide is jam-packed with everything from diagnosis to treatment plans, and even tips about exercise and nutrition. Yes, it turns out your lungs can actually enjoy a salad!
Hard Hitting Stats!
Let’s talk numbers for a moment: between 2020 and 2022, there were a striking 1,145 hospital admissions from Limerick alone due to COPD. And get this—there are an estimated 380,000 people living with the condition in Ireland, yet only about 110,000 have had a formal diagnosis. It’s like a poorly organized party where everyone is invited, but nobody knows they’re on the guest list until it’s too late!
A Personal Story: Marie’s Battle with COPD
We’ve got a real-life champion here! Meet Marie Hennessy from Corbally, who was diagnosed with COPD in 2004. From inhalers to nebulizers, Marie takes it all in stride—like a champ navigating a particularly tricky obstacle course. She’s got a supportive family and a dedicated GP keeping her on track. If only we could all say the same about waiting our turn at the pharmacy, right?
“I still take walks, but I might have to stop for a rest along the way,” she says. Ah, the joys of aging! But let’s not forget—Marie still manages to sing in a choir, proving that while her lungs might be playing tricks, her spirit is soaring!
What the Experts Say
Enter Stanley Miller, Associate Professor and Consultant Respiratory Physician. He breaks it down for us: “COPD is an umbrella term including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.” In layman’s terms, your lungs are basically playing hide-and-seek with the air—hilarious if you can’t breathe, not so much if you can! Remember, while it’s not curable, it is treatable, so don’t you dare throw in the towel!
Joan Johnston, the General Manager of COPD Support Ireland, adds a crucial point: “We know that many people have COPD without being aware—much like my uncle’s terrible karaoke skills.” Beat it, Uncle Dave!
But really, early diagnosis is key, and the roadshow is the perfect chance to learn more. So, if you’re feeling out of breath and think you might be dying to see your doctor (ironic phrasing, I know), just take that leap and get tested. Remember folks, just like my grandma used to say, “If you’re breathless, don’t put it off, get it checked!”
Need Help? There’s A Line for That!
If you’re watching the air flee from your lungs and feel like you’re not sure who to call, the COPD Advice Line at 1800 832 146 is your hotline. They’ll hook you up with a respiratory health professional faster than you can say, “Hello, I can’t breathe!”
In Closing: Breathe Easy, Ireland!
So, mark the date, take a deep breath, and join the COPD & Me Roadshow. Let’s tackle this together, have a good laugh, and remember to look after those precious lungs. You never know, those breathing mechanics might be more up to date than your last dating profile!
To grab all roadshow details or booklets galore, don’t forget to check out www.copd.ie. Now, let’s get out there and let our voices be heard—literally!
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What are the key components of integrated care for individuals with COPD?
S manageable with the right treatment and support. Professor Miller highlights the importance of integrated care, where specialist respiratory teams focus on tailored treatment plans for individuals with COPD, ensuring they can lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges of the disease.
Joan Johnston, General Manager of COPD Support Ireland, also emphasizes awareness. “Recognizing symptoms early can make a huge difference,” she asserts. Symptoms like persistent breathlessness or a chronic cough are often ignored or misattributed to aging. “World COPD Day is a vital reminder to seek help if you experience these issues,” she adds.
As the COPD & Me Roadshow gears up, it serves not only as a fun event but a critical educational platform to demystify COPD. The free spirometry tests provided at the roadshow are an excellent opportunity for anyone unsure about their lung health to get expert insight without the hassle of a doctor’s appointment.
if you or someone you know is experiencing respiratory issues, don’t hesitate to take action. Visit the COPD & Me Roadshow in Limerick on November 19th for valuable information and support. Plus, the resources available through organizations like COPD Support Ireland can empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition effectively.
So, let’s come together this World COPD Day, learn about the condition, and help raise awareness—because every breath counts! For further inquiries or support, remember the dedicated COPD Advice Line at Freefone 1800 832 146, where assistance from health professionals is just a call away.
