# Precautions Respiratory Patients Should Take Against Coronavirus

Experts are particularly warning respiratory patients against the coronavirus pandemic affecting our country along with the rest of the world.Drawing attention to the fact that death risk increases with age in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and that COPD is seen in particularly 10 percent of the population aged 40 and over, Prof. Dr. Nurhayat Yıldırım stated: "COPD patients should apply their treatments regularly and should not use any medications not recommended by their doctors." The coronavirus, which can cause lung disease and, if left untreated, can lead to diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome, also poses a threat to COPD patients. COPD, the third most common cause of death after cardiovascular disease and stroke worldwide, is seen in particularly 10 percent of the population aged 40 and over. Emphasizing that COPD patients are at risk, Prof. Dr. Nurhayat Yıldırım stated: "Our patients should comply with hygiene rules in accordance with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health, Scientists from the Ministry of Health Science Board who provide information in written and visual media, and Teaching Members of the Turkish Medical Association." Stressing that no patient should absolutely go out, Yıldırım made the following recommendations: "It is very important for COPD patients to isolate themselves. They should not accept visitors. If there are adults or children with fever or cough in their surroundings, they should keep away from them." Noting the importance of patients taking their medications regularly in COPD treatment, Nurhayat Yıldırım stated: "Patients should absolutely not use any medication, including antibiotics, not recommended by their doctors. Since medications can interact with each other, they can create a risk for patients' health. Patients receiving oxygen therapy need to apply this treatment for at least 15 hours a day, including throughout the night. Attention to nutrition and continuation of fluid intake as recommended by their doctors is very important."

"Wearing a mask and washing hands are very important"

Prof. Dr. Nurhayat Yıldırım notes that with the increase in viral and bacterial infections, exacerbations threatening the lives of COPD patients are increasing, and during this period, patients should contact their own doctors or call the 184 line without panicking. Emphasizing the importance of hygiene, Yıldırım stated: "If patients' cough increases, they should definitely wear a mask and dispose of it in a separate sealed bag every 3-4 hours. The home should be ventilated regularly. Hand hygiene is of great importance. In cases where washing with soap and water is not possible, hands can be cleaned with materials containing 60-70 percent alcohol. When returning home from outside, clothes should definitely be changed and washed."