Archive for August, 2016

COPD and the Heat: Tips for Coping

Posted on: August 4th, 2016 by BrevardBlogger No Comments

COPDAndTheHeat

Summertime—the word conjures up sunny days, beaches, vacations and relaxation. But this idyllic time of year also has its downsides—bug bites, thunderstorms and extreme heat. If you live with COPD, you know how hard hot days are! At Brevard Medical Equipment, we encourage you to take advantage of all the benefits of summer while still taking health precautions. That’s why we’re offering the following tips on how to beat the heat:

  • Stay inside as much as possible between 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., especially on the days where the heat and the humidity are at their most extreme. If you don’t have air conditioning at your house, go someplace that does during this time. Places such as the mall or the public library are good spots to take refuge in. If you’re in your golden years, your community may also have a senior center for you to stay at as well.
  • If you must be outside, concentrate your activities during the morning or evening, when the sun is less intense. Make sure you take plenty of breaks in an air conditioned room.
  • Increase your water intake. This is important in helping thin the mucous, which helps ease COPD symptoms. You should also avoid sugary and alcoholic drinks, as these can also contribute to dehydration.
  • Invest in a dehumidifier—in fact, have several throughout the house. Like the old saying goes, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” While we don’t completely agree with that—heat is bad for COPD—relieving those awful symptoms that come with humidity can go a long way to helping you feel better.

Remember, it’s not worth it to end up in the hospital because you pushed yourself too hard. The experts at Brevard Medical Equipment can help. We carry portable oxygen concentrators and accessories. We can also come service your oxygen concentrator in an emergency. Stop by our location today to start breathing better today!

6 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Stairlift

Posted on: August 4th, 2016 by BrevardBlogger No Comments

6QuestionsToAsk

If you’ve made the decision to age in-home, chances are you’ll eventually need an accessibility solution such as a stairlift. Stairlifts can be a major investment, so it’s not a decision most take lightly. Here are some questions we recommend you ask before selecting your new stairlift, courtesy of Brevard Medical Equipment:

  • Who will install the stairlift?

Most places that sell stairlifts will also install them, but not always. Make sure that whoever does install the stairlift is authorized to do so by the manufacturer. Some stairlift manufacturers will not honor the warranty if it was not installed by an authorized installer.

  • Is there enough room on my staircase for a stairlift?

There are many adaptable fittings that can make installing a stairlift a reality, even for narrow staircases. Our experts can evaluate your home ahead of time to make sure the stairlift is the best fit for your home.

  • What kind of stairlift should I get? 

Brevard Medical Equipment carries stairlifts for both straight and curved staircases. Typically, you will need a curved stairlift if there is a landing on your staircase, but you can choose two straight stairlifts as well. We also offer heavy-duty stairlifts for users who weigh 300 pounds or more.

  • How much will the stairlift cost?

The analogy we like to use is that installing a stairlift is like installing carpet—the cost all depends on what you get, and how much of it you need!

  • How easy is it to use the stairlift?

 

If you have limited manual dexterity due to arthritis or other conditions, look for a stairlift with light-touch controls. Some models come with remote controls, which can be convenient if you have more than one person using the stairlift.

 

  • What safety features should I look for?

 Look for things such as seats that can swivel for you to get on and off easily, but will lock in place when it’s moving. You should also ask if your stairlift comes with sensors on the foot platform that stop the unit if there’s an obstruction in its path.

 

Brevard Medical Equipment is here to help you move independently in your own home. Call us today to schedule an appointment to get an evaluation of your home.