Intubation is the process of placing a tube down your trachea and directly into the lungs, allowing a machine to actually breathe for you if necessary and giving the docs great control over how you breathe. It's standard procedure for most surgeries, especially for surgeries requiring standard anesthesia. I've had it done several times for surgeries, and the only problem I've had was a slightly irritated throat for a day or so. I've never had intubation because I stopped breathing or had a collapsed lung....which sometimes happens to people with COPD.

In those cases, it could be considered an extraordinary measure and something you wouldn't want. My directions, included in my living will and discussed in detail with my kids, is that if there is a good chance that I can recover and live a reasonably ordinary life, then I want it. If it's just going to prolong things, please don't do it. If it's done and then it appears that I'm not going to be able to live and enjoy life, then pull the plug and don't feel bad. I've told the kids that I will not come back to haunt them, no matter what might have happened!

I would do it again. It definitely saved my life. I was incubated for 3 days and only remember when it was removed. It’s scary and my poor daughter and granddaughters were nervous wrecks. Mine was 6 years ago so definitely has given me an extra 6 years. Personal choice though.

Hi Jael
I also think it's a personal choice and everyone has there own experiences.
I personal would not ever have it done again, the doctor's had a hard time getting me breathing on my own, so it wasn't a great experience for me. I have also on the bipap it worked great and I now sleep on one at night and I feel good in the morning.. good luck on your decision and hopefully u will never have to make that choice.

@A MyCOPDTeam Member, you are very helpful and knowledgeable for those suffering with severe COPD. THANK YOU for all your helpful advice and care!! God bless and stay well!!!😃👌

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A MyCOPDT...

i have a directive thats states no more than then 5 days on a ventilator