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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment To Increase Oxygen Level

I have sarcoidosis and have suffered with it for the past 20+ years with doses of prednisone used along with 2 different inhalers and other medications. Last week I was admitted to the hospital (for the first time) and was told that on top of this I have COPD. When I went into the hospital my oxygen level was in the low 30 s and should have been in the high 90 s. I haven t had a cigarette in 25+ years and am now on oxygen until I go back to the doctor to be evaluated to see if my oxygen levels are so that I can function without oxygen. What I want to know is there anything I can do to keep from being on oxygen the rest of my life. I m 65 years old and still work and able to function. Is there a low impact type exercise that I can do to help with my breathing? I also have arthritis (caused by the prednisone side affects). What should or can I do?
Fri, 24 Oct 2014
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on HCM.
Sorry to say but end stage sarcoidosis with RA can cause great damage to lungs and deterioration of lung functions.
Steroids are useful in some cases but you already have steroid side effect than it is not suitable for you.
Honestly speaking there is no alternative for oxygen. But I can definitely give you some important information to improve your lung function.
1. Enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation center.
2. Start chest physiotherapy.
3. Start deep breathing exercise.
4. Vaccinate yourself with pneumococcal and h.influenza vaccines. This will help in prevention of future infections.
5. Do meditation and yoga.
6. I insist you to continue oxygen in night atleast.
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Suggest Treatment To Increase Oxygen Level

Thanks for your question on HCM. Sorry to say but end stage sarcoidosis with RA can cause great damage to lungs and deterioration of lung functions. Steroids are useful in some cases but you already have steroid side effect than it is not suitable for you. Honestly speaking there is no alternative for oxygen. But I can definitely give you some important information to improve your lung function. 1. Enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation center. 2. Start chest physiotherapy. 3. Start deep breathing exercise. 4. Vaccinate yourself with pneumococcal and h.influenza vaccines. This will help in prevention of future infections. 5. Do meditation and yoga. 6. I insist you to continue oxygen in night atleast.