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Dehydration and Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF)
For all the Canadians on our wonderful Pulmonary Fibrosis News site: happy early Canada Day!
As I was looking ahead to the long weekend weather reports, I was stunned to see the forecasted temperatures. I am not sure what the weather holds for the upcoming weekend across the US, however, much of the Canadian province I live in is being subjected to an intense heatwave beginning today. Saturday and Sunday core temperatures are to reach a high of 38 degrees celsius, but with the humidity it is expected to feel more like 45 degrees. These temperatures can pose danger for anyone, let alone those of us living with pulmonary fibrosis (PF)!
While I intend on spending time at my cottage this weekend, I am carefully considering what I need to ensure my own safety in those temperatures. I will proactively ensure my oxygen tanks are filled, and ensure my chargers for my portable oxygen concentrator (POC) are packed. Wearing cool and comfortable clothing, applying lots of sunscreen and drinking a lot of water to remain hydrated will be important this weekend.
If interested, check out a previous column I’ve written about dealing with the heat as a patient living with PF.
Likely one of the most important things patients with PF can do to combat the heat is remain hydrated. It appears there is an increased risk of dehydration in patients living with chronic lung diseases such as PF. I came across a website detailing this, and wanted to share some of the findings with you. Generally speaking, males aged 60+ are at increased risk of dehydration while living with PF compared to females. Also, patients taking the anti-fibrotic medication OFEV are also at higher risk of dehydration compared to those taking Esbriet.
Do any of these findings surprise you?
Did you anticipate an increased likelihood of dehydration as a result of living with PF/IPF?
The full study can be found on this website.
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0 Replies
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I’m on Ofev and I’ve noticed that I’m always thirsty. Even when I think I’m hungry I’m really only thirsty! I do drink a lot of water but it doesn’t seem to alleviate the thirst!
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