How to deal with setbacks while managing PH

This time of year can feel heavy as many of us start reflecting on resolutions or goals we haven’t yet fulfilled. Maybe you promised yourself you’d eat a healthier diet or get more sleep, but life had other plans. It happens to the best of us.

For those in the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community, setbacks like these are all too familiar. But here’s an important reminder: Setbacks don’t equal failure. You’re not alone in facing these challenges.

Maybe you didn’t do as well as you’d hoped on your six-minute walk test or you struggled to complete a pulmonary function test. That doesn’t mean you failed. It might just be time to talk with your PH care team about adjusting your treatment plan. Or maybe it was just a bad testing day. (Trust me, we all have those!)

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January 8, 2021 Columns by Brittany Foster

After Each Medical Setback, a Greater Comeback Begins

Just last week, my nephrologist raised some concerns about my weight loss over the past several months. She wants me to gain at least 5 pounds. The tricky part? I have dietary restrictions due to both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and PH. Weight gain is the priority, but balancing my health needs can be tricky.

It’s easy to feel frustrated when challenges crop up, especially early in the new year. Managing PH and coexisting conditions isn’t easy. Some days just plain suck! But I’m learning to accept that setbacks are a part of the journey, and what matters most is how we respond to them.

The following reminders help me when I’m feeling overwhelmed or discouraged:

Allow for grace and rest

We’re often our own worst critics. Think about everything you’ve already endured. You’ve come so far! Yet, how frequently do we extend grace to ourselves? It’s easy to show kindness to others, but offering it to ourselves can take practice. For me, this is a work in progress.

Setbacks can also increase stress, which takes a toll on our bodies. Don’t ignore the need for extra rest. If your body’s asking for an afternoon nap, take it. Living with PH often means battling fatigue, so rest is essential.

Find small ways to recharge, like stepping outside for sunlight and fresh air, which can do wonders for your mood. Stretching, light exercise, and meditation are also great tools to help reduce stress and bring a sense of calm.

Lean on others and educate yourself

My family, friends, and “PHriends” are the first to notice when I hit a rough patch. They know me well, and when my optimistic outlook falters, they’re present to listen, offer hugs, and remind me that I’m loved. Sharing my feelings with them — when I’m ready — helps me process what I’m going through.

Regular sessions with my therapist also play a significant role. Talking through my emotions and learning new coping strategies equip me to handle setbacks when they arise. Managing PH and other health conditions is emotionally taxing, but leaning on my support team keeps me grounded.

Knowledge is power. Understanding how coexisting conditions like CKD affect PH management can help us anticipate challenges. The more informed we are, the better we can prepare and take proactive steps to prevent or address setbacks.

Remember, you are so much more than your condition. Setbacks are temporary, and brighter days are ahead. Stay positive and resilient, and never lose hope. Every journey has its ups and downs, but we can tackle anything that comes our way with grace, rest, support, and perseverance. Keep PHighting; we’ve got this!

Note: Pulmonary Hypertension News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Hypertension News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary hypertension.