Difficulty Breathing

A friend suffers from emphysema and was put on oxygen yesterday.  He apparently needs it 24/7.  He called this morning and said that he woke up twice in the night and when he woke up he was gasping for breath.  It really scared him.  Then he said he began sweating like crazy.  To him it seemed like a long time to calm himself down and get his breath.  The second time he woke up the same thing happened.  He would not go back to sleep because he is afraid.  He has calls in to his doctor, however, they are not in today.  Any suggestions?

[caregiver222]

Yes. You should have called 911. This is not a situation where a call to his doctor is appropriate. Paramedics are trained to evaluate such situations. Don't hesitate to call 911 at any time or day or night.