I have stage 4 COPD, My limits seem to be about like yours are. I had a heart attack in March which did some damage, so only worse. A healthcare professional quietly told me to check Hospice out. I'm so glad I did. They have relieved my pain, helped with the breathlessness. They also come to my house bathe me, check all my stats. I can call them 24/7. I am very happy with them.

@A MyCOPDTeam Member Marshall. Sometimes I have a problem breathing long enough for a shower. The doctor told me I should/could wear the oxygen line while I shower. Also, keep the water just warm.....not hot. Hot feels better, but it takes your breath away since it creates the humidity that effects your breathing. Sometimes I use my rescue inhaler about 10 minutes before I get in the shower and that helps me tremendously. When you get out of the shower, sit down and rest for a little bit before you work on drying, dressing, etc. Wishing you luck and easy breathing.

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A MyCOPDT...

As for a referral to a good talk therapist who is skilled i dealing with chronic conditions, depression and anxiety. You have all three. A skilled therapist will have ties to a good psychiatrist who can prescribe and monitor medications that will help as well. I would ask for a referral to pulmonary rehabilitation where you will learn breathing techniques that can help as well. Many people have the same problems you described, and they're very normal ad can be treated.

When I went for rehab they went over some things to help with showers, use a chenille robe to put on when you get out of the shower it will help you to dry off. Use your oxygen in the shower and if needed have something to sit on in the shower, a stool or chair. I also use my rescue inhaler before I get in the shower and also before I go out to get in the car. Breath easy and take care

I go to VA for my medical supplies so I am pretty much set, thank god. I too get very scared taking a shower and by the end I can't breathe, so here's what I do. Keep my concentrator running with my hose right next to the shower, dry off min then sit down on toilet and finish drying off, will try running the air hose over the curtain bar.