Suggest Treatment For Shortness Of Breath From COPD

Posted on Thu, 1 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 1 Jan 2015 Answered on

Wed, 28 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am suffering from shortness of breath from copd. I have been released from baylor ER twice in the last 3 weeks. CANT GET IN TO PRIMARY CARE OR ANYWHERE AT va sYSTOMS BROKE. i AM TRYING TO TAPER OFF mETHADONE THAT va PUT ME ON 13 YEARS AGO FOR PAIN BECAUSE ITS MAKING MY BREATHING WORSE LATELY.also terrable withdrawels now from cigarettes. I have been on polyethylene glycol for a long time but Im afraid to take it because I saw all the drug interactions online. and I have 3 or four. what can I do constant flatulance and constipation. Bad. have tried diet change and suppositorys

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Following suggestions to ease constipation

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am sorry for the situation you are in.

what you are describing, it seems that your constipation problems are related to lack of physical activity due to COPD and leg amputation.

I advise to :
- keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- take lactulose to soften the stool
- sena leaf tea can help
- consume more foods rich in fiber
- take one teaspoon of olive oil early in the morning

Hope it was of help!
Dr.Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (2 hours later)

I was asking about the polyethelene glyol in colace as opposed to the lactulose you suggested earlier.the pharmacist must have a prescription for that and I have a lot of interactions with polyethelene glycol which is an ingredient in colace which you suggested I substitute for the lactulose. what should I do please. Thank you

ahave you an answer to my followup question about Colace ingredients yet?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (34 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No problem if you'll not take colace / lactulose for now

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

Thank you for following up.

Both colace and lactulose are stool softeners and will improve bowel movements.

In our practice, there is no need for prescription. However, it depends on your country laws.

For the moment, I advise to continue with the earlier suggestions :
- plenty of fluids
- might not take colace/lactulose no problem
- when you will start moving bowel movement will improve too.

All the best!
Dr.Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju