Sex and COPD

Lung disease doesn't need to interfere with adult intimacy. For older adults living with COPD, coping with shortness of breath is a way of life. But shortness of breath does not have to get in the way of a fulfilling love life. Here are some suggestions for coping with shortness of breath during sex.

• Prepare for sexual activity by choosing intimacy when you are feeling your best.
• Relax, start slow and pace yourself.
• Ask your doctor about taking your inhaled medication before sex.
• Plan sexual activity when your medication is at peak effectiveness.
• Keep your inhaler within reach.
• Ask your doctor about increased oxegyn flow during sex.
• Use tubing extensions if you use nasal canula.
• Resist the urge immediately after a meal, wait two or three hours after eating.
• When romance heats up, keep it cool ... remove heavy blankets, and use a fan to increase airflow across your face.

For more information contact BREATHE LA or National Jewish Medical Research Center website, from which this article is adapted.