Breathlessness Management

Chronic refractory dyspnoea is defined as breathlessness daily for 3 months at rest or on minimal exertion where contributing causes have been treated maximally. Prevalent aetiologies include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, advanced cancer and interstitial lung diseases. From https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23529525

For example: breathless in sit to stand

A consensus statement of the American Thoracic Society defines dyspnoea in the following way: "Dyspnea is a term used to characterize a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that is comprised of qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity. The experience derives from interactions among multiple physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors, and may induce secondary physiological and behavioral responses. "Parshall MB, Schwartzstein RM, Adams L, et al. An official American Thoracic Society statement: update on the mechanisms, assessment, and management of dyspnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2012; 185:435.

Breathlessness becomes a problem when breathing is no longer an involuntary function that happens without your awareness. It is when you notice your breathing is different or irregular. Breathlessness can become apparent on stairs, on slopes, or when bending to put your shoes on.

For example: breathless when you vacuum the carpet

Safety or Falls Prevention Home Modification

This can include provision of a ramp, wedge, half-step or rails for home access or simply non slip surfacing and highlights to step edges.

Bathroom access can be improved with rails, shower door removal and installation of rod and curtain. Non slip surfaces, shower bases, shower hoses and bidet installation make tasks environments more accessible.

Fatigue or Reduced Tolerance to Activity Management

Fatigue can be explained as a feeling of lack of energy and motivation that can be physical, mental or both. It often affects a persons capacity to carry out their normal roles and activities and can be acute or chronic, that is persisting for longer than 3 months.

For example: getting less done in your day and having frequent rest periods or naps.

Reduced energy or tolerance can be caused by any number of clinical and medical issues. The effect however is an inability to carry out the roles and activities that have meaning for you. These can be tasks that are an important part of who you are or how you view yourself. They could be what keeps you independent and part of your community.

For example: cancelling your outing with friends as tired from shopping earlier in the day or resting after your morning shower before doing the laundry.

Mobility and Activity Performance Aids Prescription

The Occupational Therapist can measure you and prescribe appropriate aids for mobility and seating.

Prescribed equipment can assist you with meal preparation, moving from seated position to standing, getting out of the car and many other daily tasks where chronic disease impacts on independence in the home