N E W S

Vol 14, No. 3       LINCARE is a National Supplier of Home
Fall '01                Oxygen and Respiratory Therapy Services

COPD PATIENTS WAKING UP TO A MORE ENJOYABLE DAY

 For many COPD patients early morning and waking up can be a difficult part of their day. Below are some ideas that my be of benefit.

Sodium intake should be monitored and minimized for CHF patients. Always follow your physician's instructions for your dietary needs. Here are some dietary recommendations:

Do's:

- Buy fresh or unsalted frozen fish, meats and vegetables. These are less likely to have flavorings or preservatives, which contain sodium.

- Rinse and drain canned vegetables, tuna or salmon before eating...this removes much of the salt.

- Season with fresh or dried herbs, garlic, lemons, or oranges.

- Cook cereals, rice and pasta without adding salt.

- Always remember that many diary products have moderate amounts of sodium. Milk and yogurt are lower in sodium than cheeses.

- Taste your foods before adding any additional unneeded salt.

- When eating out try to order foods without sauces or gravies. Ask that meats and fish to be broiled or poached without sale. Remember that most fast foods are generally high in sodium content.

- Make your own salad dressing from oil and vinegar or purchase a low sodium variety.

- Scrutinize the labels of low-fat or reduced fat items. They may be very high in sodium.

- Read nutrition labels on all packaged foods. "Acceptable foods" are classified under low-sodium or moderate-sodium guideline.

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1. Instead of the loud beeping or ringing of an alarm clock soft music may not startle you as much and allow you to begin the day more pleasantly.
2. To help get your body in gear for the day, try some stretching and relaxing exercises while still in bed.
3. Making your bed can be a very demanding task to begin the day. But if you must do it by yourself try making half the bed while you are still in it. Pull the top sheet and blanket up on one side and smooth it out. The other side can be completed after exiting the bed.
4. Some find that a big bulky bedspread can be difficult to handle and makes for additional work. Maybe you can do without it.
5. Much of your dressing can be done sitting on the edge of the bed. It will just take a little planning. Leave your slippers, undergarments, and robe where they are easy to reach in the morning. This will require less effort and keep you warm.
6. Storing your often-used clothing in the top drawers of your bureau can keep you from crouching or bending over as often. This would include socks and underwear.