From the first call with a participant, our respiratory therapists are able to determine how well an individual understands his or her condition. Sometimes people don’t know what the trigger symptoms are that could alert them to an asthma or COPD episode. They just know that they or their children with asthma are having difficulty breathing. By providing a basic understanding of the disease process is and how the medications work, our respiratory health coaches fill the gap between participants and their doctors

For participants with COPD, we explain that episodes happen when air is trapped in their lungs, and that this is what prevents them from taking a deep breath. We explain how different breathing exercises can be helpful, such as pursed-lipped breathing. If a participant smokes, we help them to understand that if they stop smoking, they can stop the damage. From the conversations with us, participants gain confidence and are more likely to comply with treatment and medication therapies to help to keep their airways open.

For participants who have asthma or who have a child with asthma, we educate them about the early warning signs of acute episodes and about using their medications properly. We also encourage behavior and lifestyle changes to help them better manage their condition. If the parent of a child with asthma smokes, we encourage them to avoid smoking in the home. Often, this serves as a first step in a decision to quit smoking.

Cardium Health Primary & Specialty Health Coaches