Lung Health - Take a Good Deep Breath

Author

ProMedica Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation at Lely Palms

Posted on

Apr 21, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This
Each day, the average person takes about 16 or so breaths every minute. That equates to roughly 700,000,000 breaths in a lifetime. If we are lucky enough to breathe fresh air, each one of those breaths will contain 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and a small percent of argon, carbon dioxide and other non-toxic gases. Even though oxygen accounts for only 1/5 of the air we breathe in, it is the only component of air that we actually use. In fact, oxygen is the single most important substance that we take into our body. Oxygen is the one necessary component in every chemical reaction important to human physiology. The cells of the body need oxygen to generate energy and without that energy the body would quite simply shut down.
Oxygen provides cells with the energy needed to metabolize carbohydrates, transport nutrients, break down waste products and toxins, regulate the pH of body chemistry, drive the desire to breathe, and fight hostile organisms. A large part of our nutrition and energy comes from oxygen itself and it is even more important than food or water. Clinical studies show that a human being can live for days without water, and weeks without food but without oxygen biological death begins to occur within three minutes.
Since oxygen is literally the breath of life, then it is understandable why getting oxygen from outside in the atmosphere to the tissues inside our body where it performs its life-sustaining duties as efficiently as possible is one of if not the most important health challenges one faces. In order to fully appreciate what an important process oxygen delivery is one must understand how oxygen travels to and through our body.
In order to understand this flow of oxygen, lets break down the oxygen flow into seven basic and critically important - steps: Step 1: Oxygen Delivery The first step that needs to occur for oxygen delivery is oxygen access. Oxygen needs to gain access into the body. Step 1 is Oxygen Delivery when oxygen gains access to the body through the nose, mouth or in cases where an individual requires a tracheal airway a trach. When we take a deep breath, those atoms and molecules that make up the fresh air and the particulates that may pollute that same air gain access into our bodies. Step 2: Oxygen Passageway Once the air containing oxygen gains access to our throat, it is purified and then is inhaled into our lungs. The lungs are the main part of our Oxygen Passageway, which is step 2. In an attempt to purify the air that travels into the passageway, our nose hairs and mucous in the nasal passages and the bronchial tubes try to block particles that we breath in. However, if the particles are too small, they get by these defenses and may cause disease. When the lungs are damaged by disease, the passageway could be compromised. Diseases like emphysema, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), blood clots (Pulmonary Embolisms), cancer, pneumonia, or Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) may compromise the oxygen passageway with restrictions, obstructions, disruptions or infiltrations. Because breathing is something all of us do all the time, we scarcely notice were doing it. So when our respiratory function gradually declines, we are unaware of the danger for far too long -- as when smokers fail to notice their shortness of breath, or believe it comes from eating too much. Step 3: Preload Once the oxygen reaches the platform or the alveoli, it then requires a means of transportation from the lungs through the body. This transportation which comes in form of blood flow is called preload. Preload is step 3 of oxygen delivery. The preload, or venous blood flow, circulates from the right side of the heart picking up oxygen from the lungs before flowing to the left side of the heart where it is pumped out as afterload .If the body is too dry volume depleted or dehydrated the volume flow in to pick up oxygen may be too low for adequate oxygen transport.
Step 4: Oxygen Carrying Capacity When blood flows successfully from the right side of the heart into the lungs it carries with it hemoglobin. Hemoglobin, also known as the bloods Oxygen Carrying Capacity is step 4. Oxygen attaches to hemoglobin so that the blood can carry it through the circulation. If you are anemic or have a low hemoglobin blood count, your capacity to carry oxygen may be compromised.
Step 5: Pump Once the oxygen has attached to the hemoglobin, it then needs to be pumped forward through the body. The Pump is step 5 of oxygen delivery. When the heart contracts, it will push the blood which is carrying oxygen out to the body. An efficiently pumping heart is important in order to assure adequate delivery of oxygen to the tissues.
Diseases like Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), hypertension, and diabetes all may contribute to a weakened pump. A rapid or chronically elevated heart rate may be an indication that your pump is not working as efficiently as it should.
Step 6: Afterload Once the heart pumps, the oxygen is then propelled into the circulatory system. This blood flowing through the circulatory network of arteries that stems from the left side of the heart makes up the afterload. The Afterload is step 6 of oxygen delivery. The afterload serves as the mechanism by which oxygen is carried through the circulation to the tissues.
If the pressures of the blood flowing through the circulatory system i.e. blood pressure, is not optimal or if the circulation is compromised by plaque formation or narrowing, the work to deliver oxygen to the tissue will be increased.
Step 7: Tissue Delivery It is the circulatory system that allows the afterload to bring oxygen to its ultimate destination which is the tissues where it is used for cellular respiration and metabolism. Step 7 is Tissue Delivery. Oxygen diffuses into the tissues by osmosis. Osmosis is most efficient when the concentration of oxygen in the blood is optimal, the body core temperature is normal, and the blood glucose levels are normal.
Cellular metabolism and utilization of oxygen by the cell is compromised when the patient shifts from normal blood sugar and temperature measurements.
As we take the journey with oxygen through these seven steps, it is easy to appreciate that most of us are suffering from some lack of oxygen. Whether from pollution, lung disease, fluid deficits, anemia, inefficient pump, vascular disease or metabolic abnormalities, our cells are being deprived of this vital element and thus weakening our immune system. Unhealthy or weak cells due to improper metabolism lose their natural immunity and are thus susceptible to viruses and lead the way to all kinds of serious health problems. So what can we do? We can start by looking to the seven steps.
We need to
1. Improve our access to oxygen
2. Open up our pulmonary tree
3. Maintain a healthy fluid balance
4. Build up our blood
5. Increase our heart pump
6. Lower our pressure
7. Feed our cells
Step 1: Improve Access to Oxygen
We need to minimize exposure to environments where oxygen levels may be impaired. Secondhand smoke, outdoor air pollution, chemicals in the home and workplace, and radon all can compromise the oxygen concentration. Initiatives to improve your environment should include: make your home and car smoke free; do your part to decrease pollution; test your home for radon; try to avoid prolonged outside activities on bad air days; And talk to your health care provider if you are worried that something in your home, school or work may be making you sick.
You also may want to have your oxygen saturation level checked. If your oxygen saturation is less than 98% you should follow up with your health care provider.
Step 2: Open up the Pulmonary Tree
Deep breathing exercises and avoiding behaviors which lead to lung disease are the fundamentals of good lung health. The most important rule to open up the pulmonary tree is: Dont smoke! Cigarette smoking is the major cause of lung cancer and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages and make breathing more difficult. It causes chronic inflammation, or swelling in the lungs, which can lead to chronic bronchitis. Over time cigarette smoke destroys lung tissue, and may trigger changes that grow into cancer. If you smoke, its never too late to benefit from quitting. Your health care provider and the American Lung Association can help whenever you are ready.
Aerobic exercise and breathing exercise have been shown to help improve lung capacity.
Step 3: Maintain A Healthy Fluid Balance
Maintaining an appropriate level of hydration is an important part of good health. Abrupt shifts in our fluid volumes may be an indicator of advancing disease. A 2-3 pound weight gain in 24 hours or a 5 pound weight gain in a week period should be reported to your health care provider for follow up.
There isn't much guidance on the recommended amount of water that is needed daily. A general point, our thirst mechanism is what regulates hydration in the body and most people get an adequate amount of water just by paying attention to that mechanism. It is suggested that the average person loses about 10 cups of water every day, which should be replaced. This could be water consumed through what we drink or through foods that have high water content. Staying well hydrated and drinking even before you are thirsty is essential because thirst is a sign of a fluid deficit.
Step 4: Build Up the Blood
Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells, or of hemoglobin, in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein located in red blood cells, which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the human body. Anemia diminishes the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen. The element iron is needed to manufacture hemoglobin. Anemia can be temporary or long term, and it can range from mild to severe. The main causes of anemia are bleeding, hemolysis (excessive destruction of red blood cells), underproduction of red blood cells, and underproduction of normal hemoglobin.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It can result from inadequate iron intake, decreased iron absorption, increased iron demand, or increased iron loss. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia may include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, headache, and pica (unusual cravings for substances with no nutritional value such as ice, dirt, or starch).
Blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) and serum ferritin level are useful for the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia. A CBC can help determine red blood cell size, hematocrit (percentage of blood volume made up by red blood cells), and hemoglobin. Ferritin reflects iron stores and is the most accurate test to diagnose iron deficiency anemia. All of these blood tests would be decreased in iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is treated with iron supplementation.
Step 5: Pump It Up
Heart failure means that the heart isn't pumping as well as it should be. Your body depends on the hearts pumping action to deliver oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to the bodys cells. When the cells are nourished properly, the body can function normally. With heart failure, the weakened heart cant supply the cells with enough blood. This results in fatigue and shortness of breath and some people have coughing. Everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs or carrying groceries can become very difficult.
Heart failure can be managed with heart failure medications and healthy lifestyle changes.
Step 6: Lower the Pressure
High blood pressure is a common condition in which the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. You can have high blood pressure (hypertension) for years without any symptoms. Even without symptoms, damage to blood vessels and your heart continues and can be detected. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.High blood pressure generally develops over many years, and it affects nearly everyone eventually. Fortunately, high blood pressure can be easily detected. And once you know you have high blood pressure, you can work with your doctor to control it.
Step 7: Feed the Cells
Our cells are happier when they are free of infection and metabolic fluctuations. Preventing infection and maintaining healthy blood glucose levels are some basic ways to keep the cells happy. A cold or other respiratory infection can sometimes become very serious. Good health begins where we live, learn, work and play and its important to ensure that safeguards are in place to protect us and prevent disease.
HOW HCR MANORCARE CAN HELP
HCR ManorCare is focused on caring for patients requiring skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Services focused on caring for lung health include:

Patients have their oxygen saturation measured at least as frequently as the other core vital signs. This means a minimum of every shift for 72 hours on admission and daily thereafter while on the short stay units or when they require closer monitoring.
The clinical team monitors respiratory rates and lung sounds at a minimum daily on all short stay patients and with changes in condition. Cough and deep breathing maneuvers, incentive spirometry, chest physical therapy, suctioning and respiratory medications may be part of the individual prevention or treatment plan.
Patients weights are monitored as frequently as daily in high risk patients and a minimum of once a week for short stay patients.
Nutritional support and supplements are part of the ongoing care plan. When a patient requires blood replacement, the clinical team works closely with community partners to provide timely and appropriate interventions.
Heart rates are monitored closely. Since heart rates greater than 80 may serve as herald that either the heart is not working as efficiently as it should or the demand for oxygen has increased, our clinical team works closely with health care providers in evaluating our patients for treatment interventions.
Blood pressures are monitored at least daily on all short stay patients. Since elevated blood pressures may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, blood pressures that exceed 140/90 are addressed by the clinical team in consultation with the patients health care provider.
Clinicians and medical practitioners assess patients ability to deliver oxygen to the tissues through the Go with the FLO2W program whether you are recovering from a surgery or illness, or seeking a comprehensive review of palliative care or looking for palliative care.

Submitted and Written BY: HCR Manorcare - click here for more information

Other Articles You May Like

The Gift of Organization: Simplifying the Holidays for Seniors and Their Families

The holiday season can be both a joyful and overwhelming time, especially for seniors. As loved ones come together to celebrate, the pressure to maintain a tidy and organized home can add stress to what should be a time of joy. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that a clutter-free environment can foster peace and emotional well-being during the holidays. In this blog, well explore how organization can be a thoughtful gift, not just for seniors, but for their families too. Understanding the Emotional Toll of ClutterFor many seniors, the accumulation of belongings can lead to feelings of despair and overwhelm. As we age, it becomes harder to manage clutter, both physically and emotionally. It can be a source of anxiety, especially when the holidays come around, inviting family gatherings and festive celebrations. Tip: Look Beyond the StuffUnderstanding the emotional connection people have with their belongings is essential. Each item may carry memories or sentimental value, making the decluttering process challenging. Approach the conversation with love and empathy, reminding them that a simplified space can lead to greater peace of mind. Decluttering with PurposeOne of the best gifts you can give a senior this holiday season is a tidied and organized home. Not only will this create a welcoming environment for family visits, but it can also lighten the emotional load that clutter brings. Heres a step-by-step guide to facilitate the decluttering process:Step 1: Set the MoodCreating a pleasant atmosphere can make the decluttering process more enjoyable. Play soft music and have refreshments on hand to create a comfortable and relaxed setting. Encourage the person youre helping to share stories about their belongings, making the process feel less like a chore.Step 2: Start SmallTackling an entire home at once can be overwhelming. Begin with small areas, like a closet or a single room, to make progress feel achievable. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes, allowing for focused work without fatigue. Celebrate small wins together to cultivate a sense of achievement.Step 3: Sorting with LoveAs items are removed from their designated spaces, sort them into four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Toss. Encourage seniors to keep items that spark joy while helping them understand that saying goodbye to certain belongings doesnt mean losing their memories. Keep: items they love and use regularly.Donate: usable items that could benefit others.Sell: items of value that may also be a source of income.Toss: broken or unusable items that no one will benefit from.Step 4: Create Functional SpacesOnce decluttering is complete, the next step is organizing the remaining items in a way that makes them easily accessible and functional. Use clear bins, labels, and designated spots for everything to maintain order. For example, frequently used items should be within reach, while seasonal items can reside in less accessible areas. Embracing the Spirit of GivingThe holidays are fundamentally about connection and support. By helping a senior declutter, you not only enhance their living environment but also reinforce familial bonds. Its about creating space for memories, laughter, and love during gatherings.Tip: Coordinate with Family MembersEncourage family members to pitch in and share the workload. This shared experience can facilitate deeper connections, ease the emotional strain, and promote teamwork. The act of organizing together reinforces unity, transforms the task into a celebration, and allows everyone to reminisce about the memories tied to certain items.The gift of organization can transform not only a home but the holiday experience itself. A peaceful, organized space fosters emotional well-being and allows seniors and their families to focus on what truly matters: togetherness and joy. Remember, the journey of decluttering is not just about discarding items; its about making room for love, laughter, and cherished memories. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we are here to support you in simplifying the holiday season for seniors and their families. Together, lets create a joyful and stress-free home for the holidays.

The Spirit of Giving: How A Call to Order Professional Organizers Brings Joy to Seniors This Christmas

The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and meaningful connections, especially for seniors who cherish memories and moments spent with loved ones. Unfortunately, the very activities that should bring joylike decorating, gathering, and gift-givingcan become overwhelming when clutter and disorganization take center stage. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe that a clutter-free environment can enhance the holiday spirit and create a serene atmosphere for seniors. This article explores how we can make a difference by helping seniors enjoy a seamless and joyful Christmas experience.The Importance of Decluttering for SeniorsAs the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to holiday traditions with friends and family. However, for seniors, it can be challenging to navigate an environment crowded with memories, decorations, and daily items they may no longer need. Decluttering is essential, not just for creating space but for fostering a peaceful and joyful holiday atmosphere. When we help seniors declutter, we guide them through the emotional weight attached to their belongings. Each item tells a story, from cherished holiday decorations passed down through generations to gifts that were once adored but are now forgotten. Our empathetic approach focuses on helping them make intentional decisions about what to keep and what to let go. Tips for a Meaningful Decluttering ExperienceStart Small: Begin with one room or area at a time. Focus on the most cluttered areas that require immediate attention, such as living rooms or kitchens. This methodical approach prevents feelings of being overwhelmed during the decluttering journey.Create Keepsake Containers: Encourage seniors to set aside a few cherished items in special containers. This way, they can keep meaningful items without cluttering their spaces. Make sure to label each container for easy identification.Involve Family Members: Invite family members to participate in the decluttering process. This not only reduces the emotional burden but also fosters connection. Sharing stories behind treasured items can be a heartwarming experience.Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive: As you sort through decorations, encourage seniors to curate a selection of their favorite holiday pieces. Incorporate these items into their holiday traditions to evoke nostalgia and joy without overwhelming their space.By employing these strategies, we provide seniors with the clarity and comfort they need to enjoy a peaceful holiday season.Creating a Joyful Holiday EnvironmentOnce decluttering is underway, its time to focus on decorating and creating a joyful environment. The key is to keep things simple yet festive. At A Call to Order, we specialize in transforming spaces, making them inviting for family gatherings and celebrations.Decorating Tips for a Senior-Friendly HolidayChoose a Theme: Help seniors choose a simple theme that resonates with themwhether it's traditional, modern, or whimsical. A cohesive theme can make decorating less overwhelming and more enjoyable.Opt for Lightweight Decorations: Select decorations that are easy to handle and arrange. Avoid heavy ornaments and decor that can pose hazards. Energizing the space with strings of light or simple garlands can be an effective way to enhance the festive atmosphere without overwhelming them.Incorporate Personal Touches: Encourage seniors to include personal items in their decorations. Family photos, handmade ornaments, or crafts from grandchildren can create a warm and inviting space that sparks joy and connection.Maintain Accessibility: Ensure that decorations are arranged at a height that is easy to see and reach. Seniors should feel included in the decorating process, so setup should enable their participation.Plan Gatherings: As the holidays approach, consider scheduling low-key gatherings. A cozy hot cocoa night or a holiday movie marathon with close family can create cherished memories while allowing seniors to enjoy the holiday spirit in a relaxed environment.At A Call to Order, we aim to connect with our clients deeply and meaningfully, ensuring that the spirit of giving extends beyond the holiday season. Helping seniors prepare their homes for Christmas gives them the gift of joy, connection, and solace. Wrapping Up This Christmas, let's remember that the spirit of giving can be manifested through meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. As professional organizers, our mission at A Call to Order is to make the holidays brighter and more memorable for seniors by creating spaces that radiate joy, peace, and love. Connecting emotionally with our clients leads to not only a decluttered home but also a heartwarming holiday season filled with shared moments and cherished memories. This is what we celebrate while bringing joy to seniorsbecause every moment spent in a clutter-free space is a moment of peace during the festive whirlwind of the holidays. 

Declutter with Joy: Preparing Senior Homes for a Peaceful Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, many families are excited about the festivities, gatherings, and the warmth that comes from celebrating with loved ones. However, for seniors, the holidays can sometimes evoke a different sentiment, especially when their homes are cluttered and overwhelming. At A Call to Order, we believe that decluttering not only creates a more organized space but also cultivates joy and comfort during this special time. In this blog, well discuss how decluttering can transform senior homes into serene sanctuaries, offering a few tips on how to embark on this rewarding journey.The Emotional Weight of ClutterIts no secret that clutter can induce feelings of stress and anxiety. For seniors, this burden can become significantly heavier. Aging can bring about physical limitations, mood fluctuations, and even feelings of loss or nostalgia. The accumulation of belongings, once cherished, can start to serve as a reminder of whats gone. The transition from cluttered environments to clean spaces not only visually uplifts homes but can also enhance emotional well-being. Decluttering before the holidays not only prepares a space for festivities but also creates an inviting environment for family gatherings. Imagine a peaceful home where your loved one can enjoy the laughter and joy of shared moments without the distraction of clutter. Thats the magic of creating a comfortable space. Tip 1: Embrace Memories, Let Go of ExcessWhen embarking on the decluttering journey, its essential to approach it with sensitivity and empathy. Start by setting aside time to sort through belongings, emphasizing the emotional significance of each piece. A great way to engage your loved one in this process is to invite them to share stories about the items theyve kept. This can be a wonderful bonding experience and can also help them to understand which items truly hold value for them. Actionable Steps:Create Categories: Designate separate areas for items to keep, donate, and discard.Use the One-Year Rule: If your loved one hasnt used or enjoyed an item in the past year, it may be time to let it go.Utilize Memory Boxes: Encourage them to keep a small box for particularly cherished items this helps preserve memories while still reducing clutter.Simplify Spaces for a Stress-Free HolidayOnce the tough decisions about what to keep have been made, its time to create a simplified living space thats easy to navigate and joyful to inhabit. A clean, organized home can significantly lighten the holiday load, allowing everyone to focus on what truly matters: creating memories with family. Tip 2: Optimize Storage and Layout for ComfortAfter decluttering, its essential to think about the layout of furniture and storage solutions. A well-organized, open space enhances movement and reduces hazards. Consider these steps to optimize their environment in a way that ensures safety and ease of access.Actionable Steps:Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to facilitate conversation and movement. Create cozy corners for relaxation, ensuring pathways are clear.Accessible Storage Solutions: Use bins, baskets, or labels to store items neatly. Place frequently used items within easy reach to foster independence and comfort.Holiday Spirit Decor: Once the clutter is cleared, add some holiday touches. Whether its a simple wreath or a collection of family photos, personal touches can bring warmth and joy.The Emotional PayoffAs you embark on this journey of decluttering with your senior loved ones, remember that the emotional payoff can be profound. Clearing their homes of clutter can lead to renewed energy and enthusiasm for the holiday season, allowing them to focus on what truly matters family, love, and connection. A serene environment sets the stage for memorable family gatherings, enhancing the holidays in a deeply meaningful way.At A Call to Order, we are passionate about helping seniors create spaces that reflect joy and ease. Decluttering may initially seem like a daunting task, but with the right approacha sprinkle of love and patienceit can transform into a fulfilling experience. As we gear up for this joyful season, lets ensure that our senior loved ones feel comforted and treasured in their homes. With every item sorted, we pave the way for a warm and peaceful holiday season filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments. Lets celebrate the magic of the holidays by creating a home that invites joy! If you need assistance in your decluttering journey or would like a helping hand, dont hesitate to reach out. Together, we can embrace the spirit of the season while creating space for comfort and connection. Happy holidays from all of us at A Call to Order!

Local Services By This Author

Arden Courts of Naples (Lely Palms)

Memory Care 6135 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd., Naples, Florida, 34113

Your Best Way HomeLocated on Rattlesnake Hammock Road in Naples, FL, ManorCare provides individualized post-hospital skilled nursing care in a comfortable environment. Our clinical and therapy teams are experienced in providing specialized care focused on your needs, interests, and ability. This commitment results in a smoother and safer transition throughout your recuperation.

Lely Palms Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation

Skilled Nursing 6135 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd., Naples, Florida, 34113

Your Best Way HomeLocated on Rattlesnake Hammock Road in Naples, FL, ManorCare provides individualized post-hospital skilled nursing care in a comfortable environment. Our clinical and therapy teams are experienced in providing specialized care focused on your needs, interests, and ability. This commitment results in a smoother and safer transition throughout your recuperation.