Nebuliser friends

Back in 2013 we wrote this piece about how the British public never failed to get behind a good cause such as fund raising for nebulisers, you can read it HERE. We are pleased to say despite recent headlines this still holds true.

Getting to grips with technology and social media has always been a little tricky for us but we took it slowly and shouted HELP when we needed it. (more often than I care to admit) Recently we were given another push by one of our customers to revisit Twitter. You can read Ken's story HERE

I can honestly say we have been bowled over by the atmosphere of friendly support, intelligent advice and community spirit. Friends are there waiting to help, at national level and more importantly at local level. Friends such as Wigan Warblers, a community choir passionate about singing for COPD and long term health conditions are just one example of how other people with long term medical conditions are waiting to reach out to you. You can find all sorts of activities and interests on Twitter whether you want to bake a cake, drink good wine, plant some bee friendly flowers or photograph your local wildlife. If you have an ambition or aspiration someone will be there to help you achieve it. So don't take my word for it why not check it out, you never know who you might find. @evergreennebs

Nebulisers and nebuliser accessories for your holidays

We are all very careful when it comes to booking our holiday. We chat about the destination, shop around for the best price and count the weeks till it arrives. As the weeks roll buy we swoop up suncream, toiletries and check the weather getting more and more excited, more and more ready for that well earned break.
Our friends on our useful links, have pages on travel insurance for travelling with a medical condition as well as hints and tips to help you get the most from your holiday.
British Lung Foundation
Asthma UK
Cystic Fibrosis Trust
2020 Voice Cancer
We can help you with a nebuliser. If you're looking for a small one for your suitcase or if its a nebuliser with a battery, a car lead or one that works at 110 Volts we have many portables to choose from HERE So don't leave it till the last minute to have a look what is available and if you already have a travel nebuliser then along with your other holiday preparations, check it's working, the battery is charging and all your accessories are in tip top condition. Don't leave it too late, you can reorder on 01942 701210 or on line HERE

Lung health, Lung help

We are always blogging about our kindred spirits and useful links such as Asthma UK, the British Lung Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Voice 20-20 cancer. 
Why? Because everyday we speak to people who are lost, confused and overwhelmed by their diagnosis. Our kindred spirits are the experts. Expert clinical professionals as well as expert patients. The members of these organisations work tirelessly on your behalf and are there to share their knowledge, support you through your difficulties and help you find solutions, so why not click on a link and see what they have to offer. 

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are campaigning hard for a life unlimited by cystic fibrosis for everyone affected by the condition and you can find out how they hope to make this a reality and how you can make a difference by clicking HERE
They are determined to ensure that people with Cystic Fibrosis have access to life changing treatments and you can find out more and join their campaign  by clicking HERE
Cystic fibrosis should not be a barrier that stops you from living the life you want. The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are there to provide high quality trusted information and assist those who need them most. 
Why not click on a link to find out just how you can learn more, find a friend and get involved. 

Struggling with Asthma?

Are you struggling to get to grips with your Asthma? Then why not check out what Asthma UK have to offer?

They have lots of health advice which you can find HERE. They can help you to understand and manage your diagnosis as well the correction action to take if you are having an acute attack.

They are the UK's leading asthma research charity, working towards better treatments, diagnosis, care and hopefully one day a cure. You can find out more or donate HERE

And they campaign to improve care and quality for you. They do this by identifying and raising awareness of issues affecting people with asthma and developing practical solutions to these problems. You can read more about their work or get involved HERE

As it's the Easter holidays their helpline is currently closed but I'm sure the advice forum will be open for business as usual. There you will find lots of people with similar symptoms and issues who would be happy to help. 

If you suffer from other chest conditions our useful links may just have the answers your looking for. If you find yourself with free time this Easter holiday why not see what they have to offer? We will be back on Tuesday after the holiday should you need to get in touch 01942 701210.

What the British Lung Foundation do for you

We often speak to customers who are confused about their diagnosis, treatment plan or how to access help which is why we always recommend you check out the British Lung Foundation. You can find out why out by clicking HERE
They are a UK charity who look after the nation’s lungs. They want to make sure that one day everyone will breathe clean air with healthy lungs. And they need you to make that happen.

Did you know?
Your right lung is a little larger than the left, to learn more about your lungs click HERE
Somebody dies from lung disease every 5 minutes, you can find the statistics HERE
In 30 years, they have spent £25m on lung research and you can read about it HERE
Their helpline answers more than 17,000 calls a year, to speak to their helpline click HERE
We find all our useful links very helpful and we know many of you do too. For confident, independent support and advice why not take a look ? They may just have answers you're searching for. 

Nebulisers, would you benefit?

Well what a difference a few weeks can make, it has turned from the coldest spring to what may become the hottest summer in a while.

If you are struggling with an exacerbation of your chest condition or having any difficulty breathing the first priority has to be to seek medical help from your G.P. Respiratory Nurse or Asthma Nurse. 

There is also plenty of hints and tips on how to manage in the heat on our kindred sprits websites as well as large communities of fellow sufferers who have developed their own coping strategies over the years which you may find useful. 

We have seen an increase in calls about nebulisers and for some, once you have been assessed by your medical professional, a nebuliser may provide vital relief but you do need that all important prescription first. As with our mucus clearance devices, although they don't need medicine there are contra indications and they aren't suitable for everyone. So its worth just asking a few questions before you invest in a nebuliser, shaker or flutter. 

If you get the go ahead, there is lots of information throughout this blog, you can view our full range HERE or for frequently asked questions and answers click here which will help you choose the product to fit your needs as well as lots of independent advice from our kindred spirits. 

In the meantime for those of you that can, relax and enjoy it and if you are struggling remember it won't last forever this is the U.K. after all ! 

Kindred Spirits and Useful Links

Here at Evergreen we have always stressed how helpful many of you find our kindred spirits and useful links, and for our customers who seem alone, lost or confused we have always recommened you approach anyone of these organisations. Well recently, we were in a position where we needed help and guidance and the first people we turned to were AGE UK. They were a mine of useful information as well as practical support and we would like to use this platform to once again say a massive THANK YOU. They made a difficult situation much more straight forward and easier to manage. 

So if you are floundering at all, whatever the issue, don't forget you have friends out there who can help. Why not give them a chance and contact our useful links 

https://evergreen-nebulizers.co.uk/links

Struggling to choose a nebuliser ?

There is lots of helpful advice throughout this blog and you can click here for our Frequently Asked Questions and Answers. If you are looking for a friendly face, people with personal experience of nebulisers or just someone  to chat to,
Here are a few Facebook links to our kindred spirits

Asthma UK

British Lung Foundation

Cystic Fibrosis Trust

"20-20 Voice Cancer Appeal

Have a look at their pages and check out what they are up to, who knows you may even end up getting involved.
And if you just need to ask a few questions you can talk to us on 01942 701210 or drop us a line via email

Getting involved

Often we are reluctant to get involved or speak out, but occasionally when something we feel passionate about comes along it can be worth while just taking a moment to state your case. The internet can make this so much easier and whatever your feelings about the internet one of the positives is that it can be so simple to get behind a campaign and the only thing that you need to exercise is your fingers.

The The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are currently asking us to sign their online petition concerning the transformational new treatment Kalydeco which can have significant clinical benefit for some Cystic Fibrosis suffers. The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are pushing for a swift resolution between the NHS and the treatment manufacturer over costing and availability so that all who would benefit from Kalydeco can receive treatment as soon as possible.

We have added our names to the petition and if you wish to find out more there is further information available here:

http://www.cftrust.org.uk/pressoffice/pressofficepo/kalydeco_updates/kalydecoqa#wiksf

Or you can sign simply sign their petition here:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/campaign-for-kalydeco

And if you want to find out more about the work of Cystic Fibrosis Trust or get in touch why not check out their website:

http://www.cftrust.org.uk

Help

If you are newly diagnosed and struggling to find information about your condition you may find our useful links can provide a little more detail. If you are struggling to negotiate the minefield that is the NHS then why not try NHS Direct NHS Choices or perhaps PALS can help.

As the weather is getting colder and the nights are drawing in, now may be the time to have a chat with our Kindred Spirits. They all have thriving on line communities. So if you just want to chat or need helpful advice they are warm, welcoming and waiting to hear from you. There you will find people just like yourself who are experiencing similar symptoms, hopes and frustrations.

You can link through this blog or on our website. Why not check out what they have to offer. We often hear feedback from you as to just how positive and supportive getting in touch can be. 

Seasonal nebuliser advice

Well doesn't time fly! Yes I'm afraid it's that time of year again.

Now is a good time for those of you who only nebulise occasionally to be dragging your unit from the cupboard, dusting it off and stocking up on spares and accessories. You can do that by clicking HERE. For those of you who have to use your nebuliser a little more often, then maybe it's time it had its annual M.O.T. You can ring us on 01942 701210 or if you prefer  to email and find out if you have one of the units that still requires an annual service or you can ring the manufacturer. There are lots of pages and clickable links throughout the blog about cleaning and caring for your nebuliser.

And what about your annual flu jab? You can find out more here just why it may be a good idea for you and if so why not book your appointment today and if you are still unsure why not chat to any one of our useful links.

Nebuliser basics, who should have one?

With the pollen count on the rise and in some areas hospitals struggling to cope we thought it may an opportune moment to revisit the basics of nebuliser therapy.

A nebuliser is a powerful drug delivery system that should only be used if your G.P. or health professional has recommended that you do. Using a nebuliser during an acute episode of your chest condition at a clinic, in A&E or on a hospital ward doesn’t always mean that you will be a suitable candidate to have one at home

For those of you who do have a nebuliser at home it is important to have management plan agreed with your doctor or nurse so you know what to do if your condition gets worse.

Relying on a nebuliser when you are feeling more breathless than usual and taking extra doses of nebulised relievers will only disguise and delay the need to seek medical advice

Nebulisers will not work without medication and your health professional will prescribe those which will be most beneficial for you. The most commonly nebulised drugs are relievers such as Salbutamol but there are many others such as Saline, Steroids and Antibiotics. Some but not all medications may influence the choice of nebuliser you decide to buy and one size doesn't suit all to view our full range click HERE

Other factors to consider when choosing a nebuliser for use at home are how frequently you may be nebulising? How portable it needs to be? Is it easy to maintain and clean? Are accessories readily available? And for some of you it can be important that it is simple and easy to operate

There are many pages and clickable links throughout this blog, you can click HERE for frequently asked questions and answers and HERE to check out our website, which will provide more answers to all these questions as well as quick links to independent help and advice and if you are still unsure or confused you can call us on 01942 701210 or click HERE to email.

Check out the new BLF website

The British Lung Foundation Website has had a make over. Its easy to navigate and full of lots of of useful information and all the latest news. It provides professional support as well as an online community forum where you can chat plus details of your local breathe easy group where you can talk to people who are in a similar situation face to face.

We often hear from many of our customers what a lifeline the British Lung Foundation has been over the years so, if you haven’t already, why not check it out here:

http://www.blf.org.uk/Home

What is Carers Week?

Nearly six million people in the UK are carers and of these there are 1.9 million people caring for more than 20 hours per week and 1.25 million care for more than 50 hours per week.

Most carers are aged over 18 and the peak age for caring is 50 to 59 but there are many many young people who are under 18 and provide care for more than 50 hours a week

Carers provide unpaid care by looking after an ill, frail or disabled family member, friend or partner. Carers give so much to society yet as a consequence of caring, they can experience ill health, poverty and discrimination

When is Carers Week? Carers Week is the 18th -24th June 2012

Carers Week is a partnership of eight national charities, who come together to fund and organise the largest national awareness week in the UK and to offer support in a wide variety of ways. 

If you are a Carer or know someone who is and would like to find out more then click on the link below.

http://carersweek.org/

Out and about with your travel nebuliser

A hobby is a regular activity or interest that is undertaken for pleasure, typically done during your leisure time. Examples of hobbies include collecting,creative and artistic pursuits, making, tinkering, sports, adult education volunteering and fund raising. Engaging in a hobby can lead to acquiring substantial skill, knowledge and experience. Some of you enjoy participating in competitive hobbies such as athletics, golf, bowling and other team games, socialising or some of you enjoy a quieter pastime such as walking, gardening, travelling or fishing.

The key word is pleasure and hopefully for most of you who have been prescribed a nebuliser, it won’t mean that your favourite hobbies have to come to an end. Indeed for many of you being diagnosed with a chronic chest condition has spurred you on to turn your pleasurable pastime into a fund raising activity to help those who were there to help you.

Priority as always has to be safety and our kindred spirits and useful links have pages of expert guidance to help you. 

Throughout our blog and website you can find red clickable links, personal stories as well as hints and tips to help you choose the most suitable nebuliser to help you continue with your favourite hobby or pastime, be it a nebuliser for the car, for travelling long distances, or a nebuliser to pop in your pocket. You can still attend your book club, visit a gallery or concert, take a walk with the dog or perhaps the more daring of you fancy a a sky dive !

Have you taken the Triple A Test?

In the UK, asthma kills three people every day, and someone is admitted to hospital with a terrifying and potentially fatal asthma attack every seven minutes, yet spotting and treating early warning signs can prevent asthma attacks and hospital admissions.

As Kate H rightly pointed out May 1st was World Asthma Day. One aspect of this campaign is to encourage people with asthma to stay safe and out of hospital. The Triple A Test from 

Asthma UK could go someway to help you achieve just that.

The Triple A Test is aimed at people with asthma to help them find out their risk of having an asthma attack and advise them what they can do to reduce it. It asks simple questions about factors which have all been independently linked to an increased or highly increased risk of an asthma attack and has so far been taken by over 30,000 people. New data from Asthma UK shows that people with asthma considerably underestimate their risk of having an attack yet, more than a third of people with asthma are at a high risk of a potentially fatal asthma attack and 93% at a higher risk than perhaps they were aware

Six weeks after they had taken the test over half of those who were asked said it had made them think more seriously about their asthma and many had taken steps to change their behaviours, including avoiding their asthma triggers, knowing when to take their medicines and knowing what to do if their symptoms get worse

To take the Triple A Test you can click here:

http://www.asthma.org.uk/get-involved/our-campaigns/the-triple-a-avoid-asthma-attacks-campaign/take-the-triple-a-avoid-asthma-attacks-test/

For independent advice or to read further you can contact Asthma UK here:

http://www.asthma.org.uk/ 

Getting fit for 2012

Keeping active can be a challenge if you have a long term health condition, but it can make a significant difference to your health and wellbeing and may also ease your symptoms


Asthma UK  the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and the British Lung Foundation all advocate the benefits of keeping as physically active as possible. It is considered an important part of the treatment process, bringing specific benefits for people with lung disease such as an increased ability to do daily activities, improved energy levels, reducing breathlessness and  possibly decreasing the number of days you spend in hospital.
So what is your inspiration?  The Sports Relief Mile?  The Olympics?  Or is it just the brighter weather and longer days? There are plenty of places to start if you are a little unsure. If you need help to set realistic goals and ambitions then check out the clickable links in this page. 
For those of you who are not particularly ‘sporty’, why not simply aim to improve your personal best by incorporating more into your daily routine. Achieving your goals is a great way to build your confidence, self esteem and independence. It may even help you rediscover activities you used to enjoy such as dancing. One of the best things about dancing is that while you’re having fun moving to music and meeting new people, you’re getting all the health benefits of a good workout.
You can find more great ideas and inspiration here

So why not get fit for 2012 ? Whatever your aim make sure to check with your medical professional first. There may even be a Chronic Respiratory Disease Instructor  in your area and if you need a nebuliser to help you on your way there are plenty of portable models to get you out and about. Why not give us a call on 01942 701210 and we will help you find the right model to match your ambitions.

Getting help is even easier

Since opening in 2005 the British Lung Foundation Helpline has supported more than 32,000 people. Today they have launched a new low cost number which is 03000 030 555
If you are in need of advice and support on the physical and emotional impact of lung disease along with advice on welfare benefits including disability and heating then why not give them a call.
And don't forget our other 'kindred spirits' who are always there for independent help and advice.

Nebuliser Medication

For some of you who need regular nebuliser medication cost of prescriptions can be very expensive, especially if you are to taking other medications as well. The Prescription Payment Certificate can offer a way to keep costs as low as possible for those of you who aren’t entitled to free prescriptions and more details can be found here

Asthma UK along with other organisations in the Prescription Charges Coalition have campaigned for many years to keep prescription charges down and once again are asking for your support to encourage this Government to freeze the cost of prescriptions till 2015

If you would like to add your signature to their campaign click on the link below: 

http://www.asthma.org.uk/news_media/news/freeze_the_cost_of_p.html

COPD Day

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is a term used for a number of conditions including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD leads to damaged airways in your lungs, causing them to become narrower and making it harder for you to take air in and out. Symptoms range from a cough, phlegm or shortness of breath. Some people may only notice their symptoms in winter, or they might put them down to bronchitis or 'smoker’s cough'. 

The most common cause is smoking and by giving up you can reduce the chances of getting COPD or slow down its progress. Occupational factors, such as coal dust, and some inherited problems can also cause COPD. 

Although COPD cannot be ‘cured’ there are many treatments available to help ease your symptoms as well as ways to help yourself such as keeping an eye on your weight, eating a balanced diet and being as mobile as possible. 

The earlier you seek help the better and November 16th is World COPD Day. 

Organised by The World Heath Organisation, World COPD Day is a global effort to expand understanding raise awareness and advocate for better care for patients with COPD. In 2004 64 million people had the illness and WHO predicts that COPD will become the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2030.

But its not just global awareness. There are an estimated 3.7 million people in the UK with COPD yet only 900,000 people diagnosed with the disease and each year The British Lung Foundation focuses it campaigning around World COPD day. You can find out what events are happening in your local area HERE along with much more detailed information. You can even take a Breath Test on line. So if you have any concerns at all why not get in touch with them to find out more. You can also check out our other kindred spirits.

Treatment doesn’t always involve needing a nebuliser in fact there are many other treatments to explore first. But if and when that time comes then one size doesn't necessarily suit all. If we can be of assistance then please feel free to contact us.